Intellectuals Protest Arrest of Singer

Prominent intellectuals, musicians, writers and journalists Thursday joined to protest the arrest of folk Singer Ferhat Tunc.

In a public statement “harassing the artists, who are the conscience of the public, with repressive practices is the greatest injustice committed against the society,” told scores of intellectuals and called for Tunc’s immediate release.

In a letter out of Mugla prison, Tunc told that, he was arrested under charges of “supporting the Kurdish guerrilla PKK” in a speech he made during a concert in southeast Dogubeyazıt district of Agri province. Tunc refuted the charges.

Singer Tunc, was Tuersday arrested by local security in Milas where he was invited for another concert.

Who is Ferhat Tunc

Born in Tunceli, Tunc started his musical career in Germany in 1972. Finishing his short term studies in a music school in Mainz University Tunç performed in many concerts in Europe. Distinguished for his experimental music reflecting cultural motives and exceptional sounds he was back home in 1985.

His first album expressing the voice of civil disobedience brought Tunc trials courts and prohibited concerts, alongside gaining him popular reputation among the opposition ranks. Tunc’s 18 albums harassed, banned and seized are reflections of difficulties of Turkey’s dissident artists. (PT)