The governor of Diyarbakýr has denied permission for the “Democratic Resistance for Freedom” rally on 14 July which is jointly organized by BDP and DTK (Democratic Society Congress).

In a written statement the governor based its decision on intelligence information which – he said - inform on the presence of illegal groups and organizations that would try to get people on the streets by misleading them, would confront security forces and stage illegal activities and actions”.

The governor also added that “Statements on the meeting released by some groups and some media use expressions like ‘resistance’ and ‘war’ which amount to calls that may lead to hostility, hate and opposition among our people.”

The ban attempt by the governor of Diyarbakýr will be evaluated today in a joint meeting by co-chairs of DTK and BDP.

Speaking to ANF before the meeting, DTK co-chair Aysel Tuðluk said the decision has "no legitimacy for our people who will protect their legitimate struggle and break the ban".

Tuðluk evaluated the decision as part of the current policy of repression against Kurds and added that “We are faced with the usual approach and fear shown by the state. The AKP, which seems to believe that it could defeat Kurdish people’s resistance using the police, is trying to prevent a meeting where Kurds will once again declare that they will not obey and accept this policy.”

The DTK co-chair went on stating that "We have only one choice and that is to continue our legitimate struggle and resistance. We don’t recognize the legitimacy of this prohibition. - added Tuðluk - The resistance of the people will defeat the ban once more like it did with the ban on Newroz [New Year, 21 March] celebration.”

Tuðluk ended her statement by calling on the people of Diyarbakýr to show their rejection of this decision.