On Monday, July 21, 2025, Dakok will host a series of commemorative events across several cities in the United Kingdom, in honor of Soran Mama Hama, a brave Kurdish journalist whose life was tragically taken. These gatherings, taking place at 13:00 (1 PM) in various locations, will reaffirm our unwavering commitment to justice, freedom of expression, and the fundamental rights of journalists — values for which Soran Mama Hama sacrificed his life.
The Life and Legacy of Soran Mama Hama
Soran Mama Hama, born in 1987 in Kirkuk, Iraq, was a courageous reporter for Livin magazine, based in Sulaymaniyah. His investigative work focused on exposing corruption, human rights abuses, and societal injustices. His final, and ultimately fatal, report uncovered a prostitution ring involving local police and security officials in Kirkuk, a story that put his life in jeopardy.
On July 21, 2008, Soran was assassinated in front of his home, just days after receiving multiple threats, including from politicians within the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). Despite the clear risks, Soran remained dedicated to his mission to uncover the truth. His death remains unsolved, and to this day, there has been no justice for the man who bravely fought to shed light on corruption and criminal activity.
Purpose of the Commemorations
The commemorations organized by Dakok in cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Newcastle, and Glasgow aim to achieve the following:
- Honoring Soran Mama Hama and His Companions: These events will pay tribute to Soran’s life and legacy, as well as to the broader struggle of all journalists who risk their lives in the pursuit of truth.
- Advocating for Freedom of Expression: Dakok remains steadfast in its support for press freedom, particularly in regions where journalists face significant risks. These commemorations will highlight the need for unimpeded access to information and the importance of safeguarding the rights of journalists.
- Demanding Justice and Accountability: The events will also serve as a call for a thorough and transparent investigation into Soran’s murder. Dakok calls on relevant authorities to bring those responsible for his assassination to justice, reinforcing the principle that no one is above the law.
Event Details
- Date: Monday, July 21, 2025
- Time: 13:00 (1 PM)
- Locations:
- London: 21 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, SW7 5JE
- Manchester: Norfolk St, M2 1DW
- Birmingham: Library of Birmingham, Centenary Sq, B1 2ND
- Cardiff: Gorsedd Gardens Rd, CF10 3NP
- Leeds: Leeds Art Gallery, The Headrow, LS1 3AA
- Newcastle: Barras Bridge, NE1 7RS
- Glasgow: Barrowland Park, Gallowgate, G1 5BG
A Call to Action
The commemorations hosted by Dakok are not only a remembrance of Soran Mama Hama’s life but a powerful call to action for all who value truth, justice, and freedom. By participating, we send a collective message of solidarity to the Kurdish people, journalists, and activists worldwide who continue to fight for justice, despite the dangers they face.
These gatherings represent a unified stand for the right to free expression, for the accountability of those in power, and for the legacy of a journalist who lost his life in the pursuit of truth. We invite you to join Dakok in ensuring that Soran Mama Hama’s sacrifice will not be forgotten and that the fight for a just and free world continues.
For further information or to join the event nearest you, please contact Dakok’s local organizing committees. Your participation will help strengthen the call for justice and the protection of freedom of expression.
