I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of a dear friend, a respected personality, a talented writer, an experienced and trustworthy media figure — Kak Balen Saleh (Kurdish: بەڵێن ساڵح).
On 28 February, after concluding an interview for Voice of America, I had a heartfelt and friendly conversation with Kak Balen. He spoke passionately about the situation in East of Kurdistan (Kurdish: ڕۆژھەڵاتی کوردستان, Rojhilatê Kurdistanê), the parties, and their fate, believing that the uprising in Rojhilat was in decline. Alongside his journalistic work at a platform like Voice of America, he always cared deeply about the Kurdish question across all parts of Kurdistan.
On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his esteemed brother Kak Dr Barham Saleh, the entire respected family, friends, and companions of Kak Balen, and I hope they endure this loss with strength.
Raza Kaabi
General Secretary of Komala
30 March 2025