Media Outlet: Evrensel Newspaper (Journalist)

Accusations: Calumny

Case Background: 

Ceren Sözeri, a columnist for independent Evrensel newspaper, faces charges of “defamation” on the complaint of Serhat Albayrak, executive of pro-government Turkuaz Media Group and brother of Erdoğan’s son-in-law Berat Albayrak. Both Sözeri and Evrensel are facing a monetary fine of up to 200.000 Turkish Liras as compensation over Sözeri’s article titled “Who made AKP lose votes?”.

The first hearing on March 4, 2020  was adjourned to October 7 due to the judge being on leave. 

IPI observed the next hearing on October 7. The court noted that Cemal Dursun, an executive of Evrensel newspaper who was also a defendant in the case, passed away. 

The third hearing took place on February 3, 2021. Sözeri was represented by her lawyer in the court who submitted Cemal Dursun’s inheritance certificate and a copy of the power of attorney of the legal heirs to the court. The court decided that Dursun’s legal heirs should be notified of the prosecution and an invitation containing the parties’ petitions should be sent for the right to reply.

The next hearing will be held on 14 July.