Alevi organizations protest detentions

Alevi organizations, including the Alevi Bektaşi Federation (ABF), Alevi Associations Federation (ADFE), and Pir Sultan Abdal Cultural Associations (PSKAD), protested the detention of PSKAD Chair Cuma Erçe and other Alevi institution representatives.

These organizations held a demonstration outside Cevahir Mall in Şişli, İstanbul, yesterday. Green Left Party MP Celal Fırat and representatives from civil society organizations also attended the demonstration.

Pressure and violence

A statement was read out by Cuma Erçe, the President of PSKAD, who was detained and released the day before.

Erçe stated that the government applies pressure and violence to segments of society fighting for their rights daily, particularly targeting minority communities and beliefs.

Erçe noted that they wanted to inform the press outside Çağlayan Courthouse after the trial in which PSAKD Sarıyer Branch President Beyhan Gün and Branch Manager Şimal Deniz were tried, but the police exceeded their boundaries and authority, obstructing this right. 

He stated, "The police unlawfully detained Alevi institution leaders, including myself, handcuffing us behind the back. This situation strongly highlights the embarrassing state our country is in. Those responsible for this must be held accountable in a court of law. We expect prosecutors and all relevant authorities to make the necessary statements."

Erçe emphasized that the government is trying to suppress the entire society, saying:

"We know that the increasing religionization of education through protocols and projects like ÇEDES and the assimilation and division attempts carried out by the Ministry of Culture are not in vain. To those who think we will be afraid and back down, we recommend looking at our history. We want it to be known that Alevi institutions will continue to stand at the forefront against these fascist practices and reactionary forces. We are the ones who say, 'Silence in the face of injustice is the devil's ally.' We are the representatives of the Hüseyni stance that does not yield to oppressors." (AS/VK)