IHD emphasized that arrests have become the rule rather than the exception and criticized the detentions and arrests of CHP and DEM Party mayors in particular. The arrest of Adana Mayor Zeydan Karalar and the release of Adıyaman Mayor Abdurrahman Tutdere on house arrest were cited as examples.
The statement said that politically motivated trials polarize society and demanded a re-evaluation of judicial decisions. It was reminded that arrest should be an exception.
The statement also drew attention to freedom of the press and stated that the blackout of Sözcü TV for 10 days was considered as an intervention in both freedom of expression and the public’s right to information. It was stated that journalists are pushed into precariousness due to these practices.
IHD called for solidarity against the repression and emphasized that freedom of thought and association cannot be prevented.
July 9, 2025
Human Rights Association