Turkish court sentences woman to 7 months for street interview comments
Dilruba Kayserilioglu comments on “Turlu Mikrofon” about instagram (Courtesy of Tuylu Mikrofon)
The investigation into Dilruba Kayserilioglu, who was initially arrested and later released due to comments made during a street interview in Izmir, has concluded. Izmir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has sought a prison sentence for Kayserilioglu on charges of inciting public hatred and hostility.
4.5 years of imprisonment requested
A case has been filed against Kayserilioglu, with prosecutors demanding up to four-and-a-half years of imprisonment.
Kayserilioglu appeared in court Tuesday. The court sentenced her to seven months and 15 days in prison for insulting a segment of the public. However, the court has deferred the announcement of the verdict, effectively preventing her from serving time in prison.
What happened?
Kayserilioglu was previously detained and arrested on charges of inciting hatred, hostility, and insulting the president. She was released after 18 days in detention, with a travel ban imposed on her.
In the meantime, the main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), showed support for Kayserilioglu by visiting her in Izmir and hosting her at a CHP event. CHP leader Ozgur Ozel condemned her arrest, calling it unlawful.
