Meetings and demonstrations banned in Bitlis for 15 days

In the statement made by the Governorship, it was stated that events took place in many provinces regarding the Local Government General Elections held on Sunday, March 31, 2024, which occupied the country’s agenda.

In Bitlis, some non-governmental organizations such as political parties, unions, associations and real persons make press releases, open ground meetings, demonstration marches, stand openings, mass distribution of brochures and similar activities in order to enlighten the public on certain issues and to create a public opinion and adopt the issue. In the statement stating that the actions were organized, the following was noted:

“It is seen that these protest activities are frequently tried to be used as a form of action by terrorist organizations and left marginal provocative groups. With these actions, we aim to prevent attacks, ensure the safety of our citizens’ lives and property, eliminate the plans of terrorist organizations, ensure national security, public order and general health.” In order to protect, prevent crime, ensure the continuation of fundamental rights and freedoms, the rights and freedoms of others, and general public order, and prevent the spread of violent incidents, the Governorship and District Governorship authorities will take appropriate measures within the borders of Bitlis for 15 days, from 00.01 on 3 April to 23.59 on 17 April. Except for those that are seen, demonstration marches, open-air and indoor meetings, in accordance with the provisions of the Law on Meetings and Demonstrations No. 2911, press releases, sit-ins and surveys, tent and stand establishment, signature campaigns in accordance with the relevant articles of the Provincial Administration Law No. 5442. Activities such as organizing, distributing leaflets, brochures and flyers, and all kinds of protest actions are prohibited between the specified dates.

In the statement, it was stated that it was decided not to allow entry to the provinces and districts, and individual and collective exits from these places, in order to prevent participation in illegal actions and activities related to similar issues and mentioned in the organizational calls, using the Bitlis route on the same dates.