CHP's Engin Altay speaks to 12punto: 'Erdoğan should not forget this; democracy is a regime of reaction and protest'

Republican People's Party (CHP) Istanbul Deputy Engin Altay attended the May 1st celebrations in Kadıköy.

Making exclusive statements to 12punto, Altay said, "It does not feel much like a holiday. The days when we will celebrate May 1st in Taksim in the future are near. We are in a Turkey where democracy has been suspended. Both economic and sociological tension are very high. Those who govern the state must lower this tension."

Calling for freedom, primarily for those imprisoned such as Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and other detained political figures, Altay stated, "Otherwise, I am worried that the unity and solidarity of this country will be harmed."

Emphasizing "democracy first," Altay addressed AKP Chairman and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, noting the following:

"Erdoğan should not forget this. Democracy is a regime of reaction and protest. Trial without detention is essential. However, there are currently about 170 prisoners. There is a situation that raises the tension of this society. This tension must be lowered as soon as possible; this is in everyone's interest. First and foremost, Erdoğan's."

News Source : 12punto