Aziz Oruç
Kayhan Ayhan, an editor at BirGün, and İsmail Arı, a reporter for the same outlet, who are both under investigation for their journalistic work, have firmly stood by the content of their published reports. Ayhan is being investigated for reporting on allegations of mistreatment of villagers by the gendarmerie. Meanwhile, Arı faces five separate investigations following complaints from Nationalist People's Party (MHP) Mersin Deputy Levent Uysal and former Justice Minister from AKP, Abdulhamit Gül.
In a media environment where pressures on journalists have become systematic, many reporters have faced police brutality and investigations. Despite these challenges, journalists persevering in their profession stress the need for strong solidarity during these tough times.
The cases against Ayhan and Arı were detailed in discussions with the Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA). Arı, who is dealing with five investigations recently, explained that four are due to Uysal's complaints and one from a complaint by Gül. Arı stated that the investigations revolve around well-documented issues, including news about Uysal's public tenders, lands, and an attempt to secure a loan with fake documents.
Arı emphasized that he stands by every report he has made, despite facing a series of investigations and several ongoing cases, some of which are compensation lawsuits.
Arı and Ayhan commented on the intent to intimidate journalists through a barrage of lawsuits and investigations. Arı noted the absurdity he faces, like being unable to write due to frequent summons for statements. He also highlighted the rampant censorship, with courts swiftly imposing access bans on news content. Arı emphasized that this is a clear indication of how such matters are handled, with some judges even filing complaints under the guise of protecting public officials from alleged "targeting."
Ayhan echoed these sentiments, stating that truth-telling has become a feared act. He mentioned the misuse of the recently introduced disinformation law, where any report can lead to an investigation, seen as an effort to intimidate and silence journalists. Ayhan pointed to incidents such as the Newroz celebrations, where attempts to suppress journalism are evident. Despite these challenges, he affirmed that journalists, like Musa Anter and Uğur Mumcu who faced similar pressures, will not be silenced.
Both journalists emphasized the importance of their role in exposing truths, calling for solidarity among journalists to overcome these pressures. They believe that a strong press is crucial for a strong society, and their fight is not just for themselves but for the public's right to know.
Background
The investigations stem from various reports published in BirGün. For example, on December 2, 2023, BirGün reported allegations of violence and harassment by the gendarmerie against villagers in Göllüce, İznik. Following this, the villagers filed complaints against the involved gendarmerie personnel. Arı is also under investigation for reports criticizing MHP's Uysal and former Justice Minister Gül, leading to access bans and multiple investigations initiated on their complaints.
