Asan Dzhemilev, Elder Brother of Crimean Tatar Leader Mustafa Dzhemilev, Passes Away

On April 4, 2023, Asan Dzhemilev, the elder brother of the distinguished leader of the Crimean Tatar movement, Mustafa Dzhemilev, died in Bakhchysarai, Crimea, at the age of 88. This sad news was announced by the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people, an organization led by Refat Chubarov. Asan Dzhemilev was not only the brother of a prominent leader but also a veteran of the national movement of the Crimean Tatars, dedicating his life to the struggle for the rights of his people.

The Mejlis expressed its condolences regarding this loss, stating that Asan Dzhemilev's life path is inextricably linked with the struggle of the Crimean Tatar people for their rights, honor, and future. "This loss is painful for the entire Crimean Tatar people. At a time when Crimea is once again under occupation, we particularly feel the value of every life dedicated to the struggle for freedom," emphasized the Mejlis.

Refat Chubarov also expressed his condolences, calling the news "very bitter." He reported that Asan Dzhemilev was buried on April 5 in Bakhchysarai, where he spent most of his life. This loss marks yet another tragic chapter in the history of the Crimean Tatar people, who continue to fight for their rights and identity.

Asan Dzhemilev was born in Crimea in 1937. In 1944, during the mass deportation of the Crimean Tatars, he and his family, which at that time included five other children, were forcibly taken to Uzbekistan. The exile was a severe trial for the family, but Asan, like many others, actively participated in the Crimean Tatar national resistance. He belonged to a generation that, despite all hardships, did not break and maintained faith in returning to their homeland.

After returning to Crimea, Asan Dzhemilev settled in Bakhchysarai, where he continued his active work for the benefit of his people. In 2017, he came under the scrutiny of the FSB, which conducted interrogations due to his active stance. This indicates that even in his old age, Asan Dzhemilev remained an important figure in the Crimean Tatar movement.

It is worth noting that in March of the previous year, a prominent activist of the Crimean Tatar national movement, teacher, and younger sister of Mustafa Dzhemilev, Gulizar Abdulayeva, passed away in occupied Crimea. These events highlight the difficult times faced by the Crimean Tatar people and the losses they endure in their struggle for rights and freedom.