A protest march was held in Çorum as part of the reactions against the appointment of a trustee to Halk TV. During the demonstration led by the YENİ Party Çorum Provincial Presidency, it was emphasized that the decision targets press freedom and the public's right to receive information.
Participants gathered at the Özdoğanlar Intersection and marched to Kadeş Peace Square. Following the march, YENİ Party Çorum Provincial Chair Dinçer Solmaz made a press statement on behalf of the protesters.
“THE PUBLIC'S RIGHT TO RECEIVE INFORMATION IS BEING TARGETED”
In his statement, Solmaz argued that judicial operations, pressure on journalists, and the practice of appointing trustees continue in Turkey. He stated that the decision regarding Halk TV concerns not only a television channel but also the free press and the public's right to receive information.
“This decision targets not only Halk TV but also the free press and the public's right to receive information. Attempting to silence the opposition as we head toward an election is an encroachment on the nation's right to make free choices.”
Claiming that the decision was made for political purposes, Solmaz stated that the government is trying to silence the opposition. Solmaz also noted that the timing of the trustee decision targeting Halk TV was “not a coincidence.”
Solmaz pointed out that the decision was made on the day the defense of the imprisoned Ekrem İmamoğlu began in Silivri, stating that this situation is particularly noteworthy in terms of the public's right to receive information. Touching upon the funding crisis currently debated in the public eye, Solmaz argued that pressure on the media has been increased at a time when allegations on the agenda are being discussed.
At the end of his statement, saying that the press cannot be suppressed through the judiciary and law enforcement, Solmaz said, “We stand with Halk TV, the free press, and all media workers.”
News Source: 12punto
