Disciplinary Regulation Case Postponed to 12 June

The case, brought before the Constitutional Court with a request for a stay of execution, held its third hearing today.

The hearing, presided over by President of the Constitutional and Supreme Court Bertan Özerdağ, was attended by lawyer Öncel Polili representing the teachers’ unions. During the session, both Polili and Deputy Attorney General Cemaliye Usanmaz submitted instructions for documents to be presented to the court. Given the parties' agreement to proceed with the substantive hearing in the next session, the interim injunction application was withdrawn.

The court postponed the case to 12 June for the substantive hearing to take place.

Öncel Polili

Speaking to the press following the hearing, lawyer Öncel Polili stated that the documents to be submitted had been identified and would be filed within the one-week deadline granted by the court. He added that the substantive hearing would be held on 12 June.

Since the case is moving to the merits stage, Polili said they decided to drop the application for an interim injunction. “Most likely, the hearing will conclude on 12 June, and the case will be adjourned for a ruling,” he noted.

Selma Eylem

KTOEÖS President Selma Eylem said that pressures related to the Disciplinary Regulation continue at Bekirpaşa High School. Referring to interventions against student protests and the media, Eylem stated: “What is being attempted in this country is the silencing of democratic principles through imposition, pressure, and disregard for the law.”

“We will not bow to any of this,” she added, calling on society to stand together in solidarity and continue the struggle.

Mustafa Baybora

KTÖS President Mustafa Baybora reiterated that they will never compromise on the principles of Atatürk and a secular way of life. He stressed that they would resist all impositions through organised struggle.

Expressing their trust in the independence of the judiciary, Baybora said freedom of thought and expression is under threat, citing the lawsuits filed in this context.

“The repressive measures and bans targeting the press at Bekirpaşa High School reflect the government’s and presidency’s stance on freedom of thought and expression,” Baybora said. “We are those who care for our country, our children, and our future. That is why we will continue the fight.”

He concluded by stating that their red lines are their children, their country, their future, and the creation of a livable homeland.