Dozens gathered in an Istanbul court as proceedings began against individuals accused of participating in banned demonstrations and resisting police orders during anti-government protests. These protests erupted following the arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, the opposition mayor of Istanbul, who is seen as a significant challenger to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s lengthy tenure. Imamoglu was detained on March 19 and subsequently jailed on corruption charges, which many perceive as politically motivated. Despite this, the government maintains that Turkey’s judiciary operates independently.
A total of 189 defendants, primarily university students, are defending themselves against charges of participating in prohibited protests and failing to comply with dispersal orders. Some face additional charges related to carrying weapons. Among those on trial are four photojournalists and three journalists who were covering the demonstrations. The court has decided to separate their cases from the main proceedings.
These defendants are part of a larger group of over 2,000 individuals detained during what is considered the country’s most extensive mass demonstrations in more than ten years. At the initial hearing, lawyers called for the acquittal of all 189 defendants.
Included among the defendants is Derin Doga Kus, a student from Istanbul University, who was detained at her home on March 24 and released from jail last week alongside numerous other students. Their release was influenced by persistent efforts from parents, many of whom held daily vigils outside Silivri prison, located west of Istanbul.
During the proceedings, Derin Doga Kus reflected on her experience, stating, “I spent 18 days in Silivri prison and was released a week ago today. We all missed our exams. Some lost their jobs.” She criticized the legal process, suggesting it compromised the integrity of the law.
Outside the courthouse, Avni Gundogan, the father of another defendant, joined hundreds in rallying support for the students. He emphasized the peaceful and legitimate nature of their activities, asserting that they exercised their constitutional rights, which were subsequently violated. Gundogan called for an acquittal for all involved.
