I won’t keep quiet, says Istanbul Bar head in court over accusations of influencing coup trials

ISTANBUL - Doğan News Agency

Istanbul Bar head Ümit Kocasakal (2 L) and other nine lawyers came to the Silivri Courthouse where they are tried for preventing judiciary process. DHA photo

Istanbul Bar head Ümit Kocasakal has said he will not keep silent even if his life is at stake, speaking as one of 10 lawyers accused of trying to influence the judicial process in the alleged Balyoz (Sledgehammer) coup case.

“I don’t think I have committed a crime. I am comfortable … I won’t keep quite even if I am sent to jail or my life is threatened,” said Kocasakal during the third trial of himself and nine other lawyers from the Istanbul Bar Association, which is being held in the Silivri courthouse.

They face two to four years in prison on charges of “attempting to influence the judicial process.” 

Around 50 lawyers, including the Union of Turkish Bar Associations (TBB) head Metin Feyzioğlu, were present at the trial to defend their colleagues. 

CHP deputies present

Main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) deputies Mahmut Tanal and İlhan Cihaner were also present during the trial. 

Ten lawyers, including Kocasakal, are accused of “influencing the judicial process” for making an unpermitted statement at the courthouse during the Balyoz trial on April 6, 2012, by taking the seats of the suspects’ lawyers.