Cafer Gürcafer, President of the Cyprus Turkish Constructors Association (KTİMB), has criticized the trial of Ali Kişmir, journalist and President of the Press Workers’ Union (Basın-Sen), as a clear example of the oppressive system the country is being dragged into without awareness.

Ali Kişmir faces charges stemming from a 2020 social media post and is being prosecuted with a potential 10-year prison sentence. The latest court hearing has been adjourned to December 6. During the proceedings, members of parliament, political parties, and civil society organizations gathered outside the courthouse to show their support for Kişmir.

In a written statement, Gürcafer expressed strong solidarity with Kişmir, stating: “The Ali Kişmir case is the clearest example of the oppressive structure that the people of this country are unknowingly being dragged into.”

Broader Support for Kişmir

Many prominent figures and organizations have spoken out in support of Kişmir. Serkan Soyalan, General Secretary of Basın-Sen, emphasized that the case is not just about Kişmir but also about protecting freedom of speech, thought, and the press. Meanwhile, Hasan Esendağlı, President of the Cyprus Turkish Bar Association, argued in court that Kişmir’s post was a form of political criticism targeting Ankara's alleged interference in TRNC presidential elections.

The Journalists’ Union of Cyprus in the South also voiced their support, calling on democrats not to ignore the case, highlighting its significance for democracy and press freedom.

The trial has sparked widespread concern about freedom of expression in the TRNC, with supporters calling for justice and an end to what they see as undue pressure on journalists and the media. The case continues to draw attention both locally and internationally, with advocacy for Kişmir growing.