Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, the leader of the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), has warned of potential provocations against the crowds walking with him in the “justice march” toward Istanbul.
“We are hearing that some provocations could take place as we are getting closer to Istanbul. I want all participants to respond to any kind of provocations with applauds,” Kılıçdaroğlu told reporters early July 3.
Kılıçdaroğlu began the 19th day of his justice march on early July 3, with thousands of participants accompanying him. There were minor protests against the justice march in its earlier days.
“We have been subject to swearing, stones were thrown at us, and fertilizers were dumped on our way. We are walking for justice and for a cause. So, consider stones thrown at us as roses and curses as nice words,” Kılıçdaroğlu said.
“Whatever they say, we’ll walk for an ideal Turkey, for our children, for our future and for justice,” he added.
CHP’s justice march is set to end on March 9 with a massive rally in Istanbul.
The protest had begun right after CHP Istanbul Deputy Enis Berberoğlu was arrested on accusations of espionage and leaking “state secret” documents to the press.
“No prosperity can be reached through oppression. Our core philosophy necessitates us to stand with the oppressed,” Kılıçdaroğlu said.