LONDON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- The Times of London said Saturday it has named slain Iranian protester Neda Soltan the newspaper's person of the year for 2009.
The British newspaper said it is honoring Soltan's bravery in opposing the controversial elections in Iran that resulted in President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad being re-elected.
Soltan was shot June 20 while taking part in a Tehran demonstration in opposition to the presidential election, which was dogged by allegations its results were rigged.
Prior to being shot, Soltan openly spoke to her fiance about her need to question the June 12 election's results.
"Even if a bullet goes through my heart, it's not important," said Soltan, whose last moments were captured on video and spread worldwide. "What we're fighting for is more important. When it comes to taking our stolen rights back we should not hesitate. Everyone is responsible. Each person leaves a footprint in this world."
