CTP: “We Will Not Remain Silent in the Face of Threats Targeting Press Freedom”

In its statement, CTP said that the recent death threat targeting journalist Pınar Barut—directed at both herself and her family—once again revealed the alarming scale of violence against media professionals.

CTP noted that the country is witnessing a period marked by workplace shootings, arson attacks on car dealerships, and open displays of power by criminal organisations. The party warned that the systematic targeting of journalists who expose this dangerous trend is not only an attack on individuals, but a threat to democracy, the public’s right to information, and overall public safety.

Stating that silencing the press means suffocating the voice of the people, CTP argued that long-standing security weaknesses stem from persistent lack of oversight, irresponsibility, and the executive’s lack of seriousness. The statement added that deficiencies in border controls, population policies, firearms permits, and the monitoring of criminal networks have collectively emboldened organised crime groups and allowed them to tighten their grip on the country.

“Today, it is not only journalists who are being targeted; it is the entire society that is being threatened and intimidated,” the party said, adding that the rise in threats against journalists in parallel with the increase in criminal incidents has pushed the country into a security crisis.

CTP emphasized that it will not allow organised crime to gain ground and that it will continue its struggle against those who target journalists and violate the public’s right to access the truth. The party stressed that press freedom is an inseparable part of democratic life, public conscience, and the will of the people, and that ensuring the safety of journalists is an unquestionable responsibility of the state.

Calling on the government to act, CTP demanded the immediate launch of an effective and determined campaign against criminal organisations, the elimination of security failures, and the implementation of concrete measures to protect journalists’ safety and restore public order.

The party concluded its statement with the words: “We will not retreat. We will not remain silent. We will not surrender this country to criminal organisations.”