Thousands of people rallied in Istanbul and Ankara on Saturday, demanding press freedom and an end to arrests, censorship and government takeovers of media outlets.

The protesters, including journalists, rights activists and opposition representatives, held placards calling for the release of jailed journalists and chanted slogans against censorship. Police estimated at least 3,000 people gathered in each city.

According to AFP, the Turkish Journalists’ Union said authorities had jailed 11 journalists over the past two months and shut down several media outlets. Earlier this month, police raided broadcaster Halk TV, halted its broadcasts and installed a government-appointed administrator.

The protests came amid growing concerns over restrictions on independent journalism in Turkey, where media freedom has faced mounting pressure since the failed 2016 coup attempt.

In Ankara, protesters also heard a letter from jailed BirGun journalist Ismail Ari, who said he was imprisoned for doing his job. The government has repeatedly denied arresting journalists for their professional work.

BOB Post