DUSHANBE, February 9, 2011, Asia-Plus -- The Embassy of the United States of America strongly condemns the February 7 assault on Hikmatullo Sayfullozoda, the press secretary of the Islamic Revival Party of Tajikistan and editor of its newspaper.

This unprovoked attack on a member of a legitimate political party was an attack on political expression in Tajikistan.

Accordingly, we call on the government to conduct a thorough investigation of the attack and prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law.  Individuals should not fear violence or harassment because of their political views, religious beliefs, or membership in political parties.

The Embassy of the United States wishes Mr. Sayfullozoda a speedy recovery and return to his duties, press release issued by the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe on February 9 said.