Turkish journalist’s arrest sparks #FreedomForJournalistBaransu

Investigative Turkish journalist Mehmet Baransu was arrested last week on charges of obtaining classified documents. Baransu received documents, known as “Sledgehammer”, revealing an alleged army-led coup against Prime Minister Erdogan’s government in 2003. He is accused of exposing the documents in his writings for the daily Taraf in 2010. 

As a result, hundreds of army officers were arrested. But many now believe the “Sledgehammer” documents were forged. In 2014, Turkey’s highest court permitted the release of some officers, arguing authorities violated their right to a fair trial. Now, the Turkish ruling party blames the religious Gulen movement with fabricating the ‘Sledgehammer’ documents. 

Critics say President Erdogan has a poor record on press freedom and argue that Baransu should not be blamed for merely publishing documents. He may face up to eight years in prison if convicted. 

Journalists demonstrated in front of the Istanbul court Monday, as Baransu’s lawyers contend he was arrested for being critical of the government.