14.19: Demonstrators assembled in Taksim Sqaure after a call for meeting at 2pm local time. Thousands of protestors from worker unions, NGOs, political parties and other ordinary citizens have packed the area.
Activists initiated a general cleaning in Gezi Park and its surroundings, picking all the trash with gloved hands including cigarette butts.
No police presence was observed nearby.
Demonstrators set up tables in the park that contained food and first aid kits.
The Atatürk statue in the centre square is filled with political party banners and flags.
16.04: Thousands gathered in the square. Thousands more are to come. A festive sprit is in the air. (NV/BK)
* Photo credit: Nilay Vardar
