'How Can I Say That I'm Happy?'

Q: How do you view the opposition movement? Have they become stronger or weaker?

A: I don't know exactly what they are doing outside. They are doing the best they can. Exiles are also effective in some ways, but inside we have to capitalize on our life. There is much evidence that many political prisoners ruin their life, divorce and leave their infants. I think we need to try to live in accordance with love and wisdom. If we act with anger we will blunder. We need to hold the democratic principles. We must have unity, avoid terrorism and respect discipline. We need to organize the public forces. The other side is not the enemy because we are of the same nationality. Whatever they say, we need to try to act with love.

Q: What is your expectation for change?

A: The words of the president were delightful. But although the speech is professional, the actions are still at the primary level. The words are marvelous, but now the actions speak louder than the words. We need to wait and see. After a half-year their graph will take shape. But we don't need to wait  just for chance or circumstances, we have to do what we must. If the public and political parties are united and our actions are not selfish and are based on good strategy, we will achieve our goal.

Q: What is your opinion of the new government?

A: The speech of the president is respectful and welcomed. He ideologically said the right thing but needs time for him to shape the outcome. It is very early to say. But the situation is not so good at the starting point.

Q: How was your experience in jail?
 
A: The authorities violated the law of human rights and need to repair a lot. On the facade, they pretended to repair the damage, but it was very ugly inside. Authorities from the prison neglected living standards, communication and health care by transferring duties to deputy jailers who could do whatever they wished. There are many weaknesses in the administration and health care system. I never ate food from the jail the entire 6-years. Human rights violation are still ongoing. Although I'm retired from the army and older than the jailer, he threatened us by saying: “If you don't obey, my hand will speak.”