Gültan Kışanak: We need freedom not release decisions

Gültan Kışanak, one of those released in the Kobanê Case, said after leaving prison: "We want to live in a country where women, people, beliefs are free, and identities and languages are not a problem."

Former Amed Metropolitan Municipality co-mayor Gültan Kışanak, who was held in Kocaeli No. 1 F Type High Security Prison, was released after 7.5 years. In the Kobanê Case heard today, an acquittal decision was made for Gültan Kışanak, who was accused of "disrupting the unity and integrity of the state". She was sentenced to 8 years on the grounds of "membership in an organization". The sentence was increased by half to 12 years and a release decision was given.

Many people welcomed Gültan Kışanak in front of the prison chanting "Jin jiyan azadi".

Making a short speech, Kışanak said: “Unfortunately, today, a decision was made in the Kobanê Case that continues the conspiracy. Our friends could not regain their freedom. That's why we are all in a very sad situation. President Figen sent greetings and love. We actually need freedom and peace, not a release decision. I hope that we will all wage and win a struggle that will solve the problems in this country on the basis of freedom. The point is not to be released, the point is to create an environment in which this country can solve its problems. We want to live in a country where women, people, beliefs are free, and identities and languages are not a problem. We want to live freely inside or outside. I know that being outside alone is not freedom. Unfortunately, we cannot enjoy freedom to the fullest where there is no law, justice and peace. I want a free future for the whole of Turkey, for its people, for women and for children.”