Ankara’s Kızılay Square Also "Banned" on May Day

Ankara Governor’s Office released a statement saying that they have designated Sıhhiye and Tandoğan Squares for public demonstrations on May Day.  

“There is no doubt that unions and workers will seek their right to demonstrate the May Day through legitimate and responsible means,” the statement said. 

“On the other hand, unions have applied to celebrate the May Day in Sıhhiye and Tandoğan Squares according to Law 2911 and these squares have been prepared for celebrations on May 1 Labor and Solidarity Day.” 

The statement continued as follows: 

“We will not allow any demonstrations that will create unrest and security concerns in any main or side streets including Kızılay Square.” 

After the statement, Turkey’s prominent unions DİSK, KESK, TMMOB and TTB have made an appeal to assemble outside Ankara Train Station and head towards Sıhhiye Square in Ankara on May Day. 

On the other hand, other organizations including Öğrenci Kolektifleri, Çağdaş Hukukçular Derneği, Demokratik Haklar Federasyonu, 100. Yıl İnisiyatifi, Alınteri, BDSP and Halkevleri have made their calls to assemble in Kızılay Square on May. 

On several occasions, Turkish authorities including PM Erdoğan, Vice PM Arınç and Istanbul Governor Mutlu have made statements saying that they would not let celebrations in Taksim Square and police would intervene otherwise. 

Unions and organizations in Istanbul, on the other hand, have previously made an appeal to celebrate the May Day in Taksim Square. (AS/BM)

* Click here to read the article in Turkish.