Geneva official backs upcoming anti-Ahmadinejad rally in NY and support Camp Ashraf rights

NCR

Geneva’s deputy mayor sent a message of solidarity today with the upcoming rally against the presence of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in New York City.

The mullahs’ firebrand president plans to attend a UN General Assembly session in New York later this month. Iranian exiles have organized a rally on September 23 against Ahmadinejad’s visit.

In addition to supporting the New York rally, Mr. Remi Pagani, Geneva’s deputy mayor who also sits on the city council, spoke against the Iraqi government’s siege on Camp Ashraf, where 3,400 members of the main Iranian opposition reside.

“I support compliance with the Geneva Conventions when it comes to Camp Ashraf,” he said. “All refugees have a right to live freely and so the siege on Ashraf residents is completely unacceptable. The Geneva city council and I are against this siege.”

“The residents of Ashraf must also be protected against the Iranian regime’s threats,” he added.

Below are some excerpts of Mr. Pagany’s message to Iranian resistance supporters:

“It is unfortunate that Ahmadinejad, who represents the Iranian regime, is going to New York City under the pretext of representing Iran. I am vehemently against Ahmadinejad’s visit to the UN and his suggestion that he represents the Iranian nation.

Ahmadinejad opposes refugees and does not respect the Geneva Conventions. This is unacceptable.

When I was younger, I stood on the side of those who opposed the Iranian monarchy and the Shah.

I don’t think the ruling theocracy in Iran benefits humanity and Ahmadinejad does not represent the people of Iran.

The Iranian people have a rich culture and civilization. They are a compassionate people who seek democracy. I will continue to stand by them.”