Ahmet Özer, the former mayor of the CHP in Esenyurt, who was arrested on November 4 as part of the ‘Terror’ investigation conducted by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office and then dismissed from his duty, and later arrested again on charges of ‘Bid Rigging’ in a corruption investigation, is now on trial facing up to 15 years in prison for the crime of ‘being a member of the armed terrorist organization PKK/KCK’. The trial, conducted by the Istanbul 14th High Criminal Court, is being held in the No. 1 courtroom of Silivri Courthouse due to the inadequate capacity of the courtroom. The trial was attended by the arrested defendant Ahmet Özer, his lawyers, CHP Chairman Özgür Özel, and many party members.
During the trial, Ahmet Özer stated that he has a monthly income of 150,000 lira and expressed his distress at being confronted with such allegations as someone who has devoted himself to peace and science. He emphasized his commitment to human rights and democracy throughout his life and denied any connection to the PKK or any other ideological group since 2011. He also mentioned his involvement in advocating for peace, particularly during the peace process. Ahmet Özer attributed his presence in the trial to his position as the Mayor of Esenyurt, stating that he would have pursued a career in universities as a rector or professor if he had not been the mayor. He also highlighted the objections of 80% of Esenyurt residents to the appointment of a trustee to the municipality.
The trial took an unexpected turn when a witness, Hicran Berna Ayverdi, connected Ahmet Özer to organizing programs for the terrorist organization on how to structure themselves in 1998. The witness claimed that these activities took place in party buildings and houses in the neighborhood. Another witness, Hermes, stated that Ahmet Özer had sought help from a senior member of the organization to send a relative abroad, providing funds for this purpose. However, Ahmet Özer vehemently denied these allegations, questioning the credibility of witnesses and challenging the lack of evidence supporting the accusations.
The trial was adjourned by the court for further investigation, including listening to individuals mentioned in the call records and addressing any missing details. The idiosyncratic testimonies and conflicting accounts presented during the trial raise doubts about the validity of the charges against Ahmet Özer. Despite the serious nature of the accusations, the trial proceedings seem to be clouded by uncertainties and inconsistencies, leaving room for skepticism about the truth behind the allegations. The next court date is set for July 14, where more evidence will be examined to shed light on the case.
