BÝA, Turkey
April 7 2006

Publisher Stands Trial for Barzani Book

Doz Publisher’s editor Vural is standing trial because of a book
named, “Barzani and Kurdish National Freedom Movement” by Barzani. He
faces up to 3 years in prison for the book which includes memories on
the Kurdish revolts and Armenian deportation.

BIA News Center
07/04/2006 Erol ONDEROGLU

BÝA (Istanbul) – Doz Publishing House editor Ali Rýza Vural is
standing trial because of a two-volume book named, “Barzani and the
Kurdish National Freedom Movement” by Mesut Barzani.

A case was brought after the first volume got published in February
2003 but then was dropped after a legal amendment. Another case was
brought after the second volume got published in May 2005.

Editor Vural, who is being charged with “insulting the Republic
through a publication,” is facing up to three years in prison based
on article 301/2 of the Penal Code.

During the hearing, the allegations by the prosecutor were read out
loud. Vural also presented the court with an address containing his
thoughts on the allegations.

Following are some of the expressions the publisher is being held
responsible for:

“Kurds revolted time after time and rebelled against the
imperialists, the counties in the region that usurped their rights.
All revolts were violently quelled. In Turkey, Mustafa Kemal crushed
Kurds very harshly.”

“However, he was only able to establish the Republic, to kick the
Greeks out of Turkish territories and to make hostile countries
recognize the Turkish state, thanks to Kurds. Mustafa Kemal at the
beginning made generous promises to Kurds but then when he was able
to stand on his feet, he forgotabout his promises.”

In another section of the book, the forced migration of Armenians is
also depicted through memories.

The book includes the memories and sayings of Molla Mustafa Barzani
(1903-1979), the father of Mesut Barzani. The next hearing will be
held on July 20. (EO/KO/EA/YE)