No Names with the Letter X

An Istanbul court rejected a request by Eren Keskin, deputy head of the Human Rights Association (IHD) and the association's former Istanbul head Kiraz Bicici to change their names to "Xezal," and "Xecê" respectively.

"The letter X is not found in the Turkish alphabet and thus, these names could lead to administrative problems," said prosecutor Mustafa Beyaslan. "I suggest using the letter H with a different pronunciation."

No name rights to Keskin and Bicici

Lawyer Ruhsen Dogan from the Society and Law Research Foundation said Keskin's request should be accepted.

"In commercial life, we use names like 'Axa Oyak,' and 'Show TV," said Keskin, "I would like to be able to use my right in line with the Human Rights Convention."

Judge Ayla Akduzen agreed with the prosecutor's demand and reasoning and rejected name requests by Keskin. Bicici's request, which was handled right after Keskin's, was also rejected for the same reason.

Lawyer Dogan, who represents Keskin and Bicici said they would appeal the decision and go to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) if they cannot reach a positive outcome in Turkey. (EO/BB/EA/YE)