Council of Europe's emergency meeting on Turkey concludes: Call to 'end arrests'

The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe warned Turkey during an 'emergency' meeting regarding the prosecution and arrest of mayors elected from the opposition. The published text called for an end to the arrest processes. The Congress pointed out that detained mayors, including İmamoğlu, must be released. The statement expressed that prolonged detention should only be possible with concrete evidence.

The meeting's concluding text reported an increase in the removal of opposition mayors from office and the appointment of trustees in Turkey. The Congress emphasized that these practices contradict the European Charter of Local Self-Government.

The declaration noted that İmamoğlu has been under judicial pressure since 2019. The Congress described the March 23 arrest as a step that damages democratic processes. The statement indicated that since 2016, approximately 150 mayors have been removed from office, hindering the representation rights of voters.

The Congress stated that bans on demonstrations have increased in regions where mayors have been arrested. The statement emphasized that freedom of expression and assembly are significantly restricted in Turkey. Noting that local governments play a critical role in protecting democracy and human rights, the statement declared that local officials must be able to work without being subjected to pressure, regardless of their political views.

The concluding text announced that the dialogue process with Turkey will continue. It was announced that Congress officials and rapporteurs will conduct a visit to examine the state of local democracy on the ground. The Congress noted that meetings with detained mayors, particularly with İmamoğlu, are being planned.

News Source: 12punto