Despite the ruling by Turkey’s Constitutional Court that the prevention of the Saturday Mothers’ protest violated their rights, the 953rd week of their demonstration at Istanbul’s Galatasaray Square was forcefully prevented for the 13th consecutive week.
On Saturday afternoon, the group once again marched towards the square, holding carnations in their hands, after several streets were blockaded by the police and detention vehicles. Human Rights Association (İHD) Co-chair Eren Keskin voiced her opposition to the police blockade, emphasising the protesters’ intention to exercise their constitutional right without resorting to violence. However, the police invoked a ban decision from the Beyoğlu District Governorate, refusing to allow any statements.
Despite the peaceful nature of the demonstration, the police forcibly removed journalists from the area and detained more than 20 individuals, including the Saturday Mothers and rights defenders, placing them in handcuffs. Meanwhile, Green Left Party MPs who remained in the square after the detentions faced their own blockade by the police. Protesting the obstruction, the MPs eventually left the scene and continued their march on Istiklal Street. Journalists attempting to cover the events were also prevented from following the march by the police.
