Message from the ONO president

By Esther Enkin

President of ONO

A few weeks ago we let you know that we had sent a letter to the Turkish government on behalf of our colleague Güray Öz and many other Turkish journalists who continue to languish in prison.

I am glad to tell you that Mr. Öz is aware of what we have done to support him. Through his wife, he sent this message:

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to you and your organization for your invaluable support and solidarity. Unfortunately it is forbidden to send or receive letters from the Silivri prison where I have been under arrest for more than 3 months now. I was only able to send you this message through my wife whom I am allowed to meet and talk to once a week.

As the ombudsman of Cumhuriyet newspaper, I myself and my 9 colleagues in prison found great strength in your message of solidarity and support. I hope this letter of gratitude reaches you.

Kind regards,

Güray Öz

I can only reiterate: On behalf of all ONO members, we urge the Turkish government to respect the rule of law and freedom of the press.

Email Esther Enkin: execdir@ombudsmen.org.