“If I Go to Army, I Can’t Account to My Brother, Myself”

Mehmet Yıldırım - the brother of Medeni Yıldırım who was shot dead by soldiers while protesting the construction of police headquarters - has declared his himself as conscientious objector. 

“I was influenced by my brother’s death, as well as Uğur Kaymaz, Ceylan Önkol and Roboski Massacre” he told bianet. 

Mehmet Yıldırım (23) has announced his decision during a press conference at Diyarbakır Human Rights Association. 

“I was influenced by my brother’s death, however I was also thinking about it before. I was running away for the past three years. I have many other idols including Uğur Kaymaz, Ceylan Önkol and Roboski Massacre. 

“I don’t want to be a part of military authority and I don’t want to take orders from anyone. I don’t want to be a part of an army that kills. No matter what the cost is, I will not be drafted. I refuse the military service,” he continued. 

“Because,” he said, “If I go to army, I can neither account it to my brother nor myself. I can’t forgive myself.” (BK/BM)