Rep. James Walkinshaw (D) is one of three leading lawmakers introducing a resolution today (Wednesday) commemorating Jamal Khashoggi, a Tysons resident and journalist who was killed at the direction of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince.
The proposed resolution acknowledges the anniversary of Khashoggi’s 2018 killing, in addition to calling on the Saudi Arabian government to “ensure appropriate accountability” for those responsible for his death.
“I met Mr. Khashoggi before he was murdered and won’t forget his courage in standing up for human rights, free speech, and accountability,” Walkinshaw, who represents Virginia’s 11th Congressional District, said.
Virginia Sens. Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, both also Democrats, will introduce a companion resolution in the U.S. Senate.
Described by Walkinshaw as a “fearless journalist and dissident” who wrote for the Washington Post, Middle East Eye and other publications, Khashoggi was found to have been killed and dismembered inside Saudi Arabia’s consulate in Turkey on Oct. 2, 2018. His death is believed to have been retaliation for his long-standing criticism of the country’s government.
Though the 59-year-old had come to the consulate on his own accord, he was not seen departing the building. Saudi government officials claimed that he left through a back door, going as far as to dress a “body double” in Khashoggi’s clothes, according to reports.
Later that month, the Saudi government officially acknowledged Khashoggi’s death, saying that it occurred during a fight. But transcripts of recordings taken inside the consulate refute that claim, suggesting the journalist was lured to the building for the purpose of being slain.
According to multiple reports, Khashoggi is believed to have been suffocated before his body was dismembered inside the building. His remains have not been located.
Khashoggi was a U.S. resident at the time of his death, having owned a condominium in Tysons since 2007, according to Fairfax County property records. He had also been a contributor to the Washington Post from September 2017 until his death.
“As we honor Jamal’s memory, we must remember his courage, fight for accountability for those who were involved in his murder, and recommit ourselves to protecting freedom of press around the world,” Kaine said in a statement.
Kaine also called for President Donald Trump to discuss the incident with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, who is scheduled to visit the White House in November.
“I urge President Trump to publicly acknowledge that the Crown Prince is responsible for Khashoggi’s murder and call on him to release all wrongfully detained individuals and uphold human rights,” Kaine said.
