A Bitlis Court rules to keep journalist Mehmet Şah Oruç behind bars; journalist says he is being accused for his reporting
By JIYAN KARA
BITLIS – After 143 days in custody, journalist Mehmet Şah Oruç appeared in court for the first time, only to have his release request denied. Oruç defended his work, stating, "Our reports might be unsettling to some, but we are merely practicing journalism, which is not a crime."
Oruç was arrested on April 25 amid an investigation by the Diyarbakır Public Prosecutor's Office, facing accusations of being a "member of an organization." The case, initially in Diyarbakır, was transferred to Bitlis due to jurisdictional issues and was heard at the Bitlis 2nd High Criminal Court.
The delayed hearing saw attendance from Oruç's family, representatives from the Human Rights Association Van Branch (İHD), Lawyers for Freedom Association (ÖHD), and various NGOs. Oruç and his attorney, Resul Temur, joined via video link from Diyarbakır Closed Prison. After confirming his identity, Oruç presented his defense.
He claimed not to have received the indictment and denied knowing the witness, Ümit Akbıyık, who testified against him. Oruç emphasized his role as a journalist, covering societal news and events. He mentioned frequent visits to the HDP provincial building for news during specific years, noting the presence of many journalists and constant police surveillance.
Oruç expressed concerns over attempts to tarnish the reputation of Kurdish media. He recounted his journalism journey, starting in 2008, and highlighted his commitment to unbiased reporting. He said, "A few reports in the indictment aim to shape perception. These might be unsettling, but we are practicing journalism, which isn't a crime."
Oruç further argued that the trial seemed more about journalism than any actual wrongdoing. He refuted the charges, emphasizing that his social media posts were merely related to his reports.
The prosecutor, after hearing the defense, advocated for the continuation of Oruç's detention. Oruç, citing health concerns, pleaded for his release. However, the witness, Ümit Akbıyık, was absent.
Lawyer Resul Temur challenged the prosecutor's stance, underscoring the availability of the absent witness. He mentioned the witness's attendance at two other hearings in Diyarbakır on the same day. Temur defended Oruç's association with the Mezopotamya Agency, emphasizing its legal operations. He referenced a similar case where the Constitutional Court (AYM) ruled in favor of journalists, suggesting that precedent should be considered.
Concluding the session, the court decided to maintain Oruç's detention to address missing documents and adjourned the hearing to October 31.
