ISTANBUL -  Diren Yurtsever, the detained Editor-in-Chief of MA stated that they were on trial for not reporting news according to the government. '

 

The first hearing of the trial of the journalists at the Ankara 4th High Criminal Court continues. Diren Yurtsever, Editor-in-Chief of the Mesopotamia Agency (MA), made his defense. Yurtsever drew attention to the journalists who were detained and arrested.

 

'YOU CAN'T  BLAME MA'

 

Stating that they voiced the problems of the society as journalists, Yurtsever said: “Journalists are the conscience of the society. It is not about crossing the limits set by the power. We are reporting on behalf of the public and conscience also comes into play here. We make news regardless of religion, language or race. MA is also an alternative in this regard and is an official agency. You can't blame us or MA."

 

"FOLLOWING NEWS ARE ACCUSED"

 

Yurtsever said: "I followed the demonstration in the Kadıköy district of Istanbul regarding the release of PKK Leader Abdullah Öcalan. I participated in the live broadcast, while holding a camera and microphone, which was shown as a crime in the indictment. I condemned the accusation that I used my mother's debit card. I took a loan from KYK when I was a student; however, I could not pay it yet. My bank account was confiscated because it was time to pay; therefore, I cannot use my own card.  I also am accused of it."

 

The presiding judge also asked MA Privilege Owner Ferhat Celik, the functioning of MA, how many subscribers MA has, and the programs broadcast on Medya Haber TV.

 

KYK DEBT

 

"Is there an organizational reason for not paying the KYK debt?" and “Why do you call detainees and convicts 'captives'?” It was noteworthy that he managed his questions. Yurtsever said: “I don't have money so I did not pay it. Everyone can define detainees and convicts as they wish. The thing is, right now, I think I've been detained. The Free Press defends the truth and we will never compromise from spreading this truth.”