OSCE Office in Tajikistan calls for attackers of leading politician and journalist to be brought to justice

DUSHANBE, 11 February 2011– The Head of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan, Ambassador Ivar Vikki, today condemned the violent attack on Hikmatullo Saifullozoda, member of the Political Council of the Islamic Renaissance Party of Tajikistan and editor-in-chief of its newspaper, and called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice.

Saifullozoda has been hospitalized since 7 February, when he was severely beaten outside his Dushanbe home by unidentified men. He is recovering from concussion and serious injuries to his head.

"The attack on Mr. Saifullozoda is deeply troubling," said Ambassador Vikki. "Freedom of speech is the cornerstone of a democratic society. Violence or threats against those who voice their opinion constitute an attack on values that are held with great respect in Tajikistan, with its history of intellectual debate and dialogue. OSCE commitments agreed by all participating States confirm the right of citizens to free and open information, and this right should be safeguarded by the state.”