Bar Association President Visits Detained Lawyer, Comedian Amid Rights Concerns

Erinç Sağkan, President of the Turkish Bar Association (TBB), visited lawyer Mehmet Pehlivan and comedian Deniz Göktaş, both detained at the Çorlu Karatepe High-Security Prison. The visits focused on concerns regarding legal proceedings and alleged rights violations.

During his meeting with lawyer Mehmet Pehlivan, who is detained in connection with an Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality investigation, Sağkan discussed claims related to Pehlivan's legal defense activities and their potential impact on the right to a defense. The TBB stated its close monitoring of legal disputes arising from the practice of law, emphasizing their importance for individual liberty, security, and the right to a defense. The association reiterated its commitment to upholding the independence of the legal profession and the safeguards for the defense counsel.

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The violation of Deniz Göktaş's right to dignity through handcuffing and the leaking of these images to the press is a clear violation of the law and requires the criminal and administrative responsibility of those involved.

Sağkan also met with Deniz Göktaş, who is detained in the same facility. Discussions centered on legal assessments of the detention measure and alleged rights violations during Göktaş's arrest. The TBB highlighted its ongoing scrutiny of the proportionality of detention, individual liberty, the presumption of innocence, and the right to dignity. The association affirmed its dedication to protecting fundamental rights and freedoms and ensuring judicial processes align with universal legal principles.

Speaking outside the prison, Sağkan condemned the alleged violation of Göktaş's right to dignity through the leaking of images showing him in handcuffs. He stated that failing to challenge such actions today could pave the way for similar treatment for anyone tomorrow. Sağkan assured the public that the TBB would continue to monitor and address any unlawful practices during the detention process.

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Not opposing this today opens the door for everyone to be subjected to this treatment tomorrow.