Coerced Confessions Under Physical Duress
Diyar Harki – Founder of KurdFile
The so-called “confession” attributed to Nechirvan Harki was broadcast after what is described as severe physical torture carried out by security forces affiliated with the Kurdistan Democratic Party — a narrative that had already been constructed and circulated by journalists linked to Parastin before the recording was even made public.
The visible condition in the footage raises serious concerns: his forehead appears swollen, and apparent marks of trauma are clearly noticeable. Such imagery has intensified allegations that coercion was involved in extracting the statement.
Critics argue that these methods, reportedly used under the authority of the KDP Security Council, are part of a broader attempt to criminalize members of the Harki tribe and the wider protest movement. If substantiated, these actions would represent a troubling pattern that undermines due process and reinforces claims of systemic abuse within the administration.
At the heart of this case lies a fundamental question: can any confession obtained under physical duress be considered credible, lawful, or legitimate?
Author Profile
- Diyar Harki is an independent investigative journalist and human rights advocate. As a member of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ), he focuses on exposing corruption and human rights abuses in Kurdistan and Iraq. He voluntarily contributes to Kurdfile Media.
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