Deniz Tekin
Journalists covering ongoing protests in Van, Turkey, over the withholding of the elected mayor's official credentials, have faced various attacks. The incidents occurred while the reporters were documenting human rights violations during the demonstrations.
Kadir Cesur, a correspondent for Duvar, and Rabia Önver, a reporter for Jinnews, were injured by plastic bullets, while journalist Serkan Kaya received death threats. Another journalist, Ruşen Takva, was subjected to a water cannon while reporting live. These incidents highlight the escalating tensions and challenges faced by the press in the region.
The protests were sparked by the refusal to issue an official mayoral certificate to Abdullah Zeydan, a member of the Democracy and Progress Party (DEM Parti), who was elected Mayor of Van, a city in eastern Turkey near Lake Van, known for its historic sites and diverse population. This decision led to widespread demonstrations and civil unrest.
During the protests, numerous journalists, including those from national and local media outlets, were impacted by police tactics such as tear gas and water cannons. On March 31, while covering the police intervention against DEM Party supporters celebrating election results in Van, Kadir Cesur was hit by two plastic bullets, resulting in bruises on his leg and knee. He was injured again on April 2 while reporting on demonstrations against the withholding of the official certificate.
Rabia Önver, reporting on protests in Yüksekova, was also injured by a plastic bullet fired by the police.
Ruşen Takva, while covering the Van protests live, was hit by a water cannon from an armored vehicle (TOMA). He later shared on Twitter that he had been subjected to digital violence due to his journalistic activities.
Medine Mamedoğlu, another journalist, reported being attacked on social media for her coverage of human rights violations during the protests.
In Hakkari, journalist Serkan Kaya, who documented individuals allegedly close to the ruling party AKP using firearms against protesters, received death threats. He was chased by armed individuals threatening his life and was forced to seek refuge in a building. Kaya reported receiving threatening phone calls, with individuals saying, "Come outside, we will kill you."
These incidents underscore the perilous conditions journalists in Turkey often face, especially when covering politically sensitive events. The situation in Van is particularly noteworthy as it reflects broader tensions in Turkish politics and society, including issues of democratic processes and media freedom.
