Journalist Kemal Öztürk Gives Testimony Over Syria Remarks
Journalist Kemal Öztürk, whose remarks on the situation in Syria were taken out of context on social media, went to the prosecutor's office to give testimony and stated that he was being targeted.
Journalist Kemal Öztürk went to the Istanbul Anatolian Chief Public Prosecutor's Office to give testimony after his evaluations regarding developments in Syria were distorted by being taken out of context on social media and he was targeted.
Testimony Process
Journalist Kemal Öztürk became involved in the legal process following his evaluations regarding the events in Syria after the overthrow of the Bashar al-Assad regime. Upon the request of the Samandağ Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, Öztürk went to the Istanbul Anatolian Chief Public Prosecutor's Office and gave testimony regarding the matter.
Stated His Words Were Distorted
Öztürk expressed that in his evaluations he recounted the sensible stance of the Ahmed al-Shara administration, but that these statements were intentionally distorted on social media. Emphasizing that throughout his thirty-year professional career he has never made any statements advocating violence, the journalist stated that his words addressed the Syrian state acting with common sense against circles wanting conflict.
Explanation to Alevi and Alawite Citizens
Apologizing to well-meaning Alevi and Alawite citizens who misunderstood the situation due to the ongoing campaign, Öztürk firmly rejected claims that he called for a massacre. Expressing that misleading posts created a false perception in society, Öztürk stated that this situation made him a target.
Legal Action Due to Threats
Announcing that he has received heavy insults and threats directed at his family and faith over the past five days, Kemal Öztürk announced that he has also resorted to legal avenues against these attacks. He stated that what has been experienced forms part of an organized smear campaign.
Emphasis on a Terror-Free Turkey
Stating that certain circles are behind the incidents and targeting campaigns, Öztürk emphasized that the real target is the 'Terror-Free Turkey and Terror-Free Region' process in the country. He drew attention to the fact that such initiatives aim to disrupt social peace.