Protest by families of martyrs and veterans in Güvenpark enters 27th day: 'Enough is enough'

Families of martyrs and veterans continuing their sit-in protest at Ankara's Güvenpark are demanding equal personal rights regardless of rank.

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The sit-in protest initiated in Güvenpark by families of martyrs and veterans who traveled to Ankara from various provinces across Turkey has reached its 27th day. Participants in the protest state that they want to have equal personal rights without any distinction based on rank.

Veterans and families of martyrs voiced their demands during the protest in Güvenpark.

In addition to the vigil in Güvenpark, the hunger strike has also entered its 6th day. The families of martyrs and veterans gathered in the area emphasized that their demands are not for "charity," but a pursuit of their rights.

Speaking at the protest, one veteran reacted to statements made by Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, who claimed that Turkey is one of the countries that provides the most support to the families of martyrs and veterans. The veteran said, "Let them give us our rights; we don't want anything else. We do not want charity."

The same veteran also described the economic difficulties he faces due to healthcare expenses and the treatment processes of his family members. Stating that he brought his child from Diyarbakır to Ankara for treatment, the veteran said that the costs have become burdensome for them.

I have no teeth left in my mouth from paying for my child's treatment; I cannot afford to get my own teeth fixed. Let them give us our rights so we can get our teeth fixed. I cannot receive treatment at all.

— A veteran participating in the protest at Güvenpark

Stating that he was wounded in 1988 and has been living with health problems for a long time, the veteran said he suffers from respiratory failure, has stents in his heart, and struggles to walk even short distances on flat ground.

The protesters argue that while words of praise are used for them in front of cameras, their problems are not being solved in daily life. The veteran concluded his remarks by saying, "Enough is enough, enough."