Publisher Stands Trial for Barzani Book

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)