Ozan Ahmetoğlu: “Democratic rights must not become a judicial matter”
In a public statement, Ahmetoğlu expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, describing it as a ruling aligned with legality and common sense despite the lengthy judicial process.
Background of the “Mask Trial”
Ahmetoğlu recalled that during his tenure as president of the İskeçe Turkish Union, an application had been submitted to the Greek Supreme Court seeking the restoration of the association’s legal status and legal personality, in accordance with rulings by the European Court of Human Rights.
Following the rejection of that application, a peaceful march organized in July 2021 led to the opening of a legal case against him — a process that became publicly referred to as the “mask trial.”
After more than four years of proceedings, the court ultimately issued an acquittal verdict.
“Even after such a prolonged judicial process, I welcome the fact that a decision consistent with law and reason has finally been delivered,” Ahmetoğlu stated.
Call for Respect of Democratic Freedoms
In his remarks, Ahmetoğlu emphasized the importance of implementing European Court of Human Rights decisions and warned against criminalizing the exercise of democratic rights.
He concluded his statement by expressing hope that:
“The exercise of democratic rights will no longer be subject to judicial prosecution or public controversy.”
The case had drawn attention within Western Thrace due to its broader implications for minority rights, freedom of association, and the application of European legal standards in Greece.
