(IFJ/IFEX) – The following is an IFJ media release: Media Release October 21st 1999 IFJ Condemns Murder of Turkish Journalist After Terror Bomb Attack The International Federation of Journalists today described the killing of Ahmed Taner Keslali, a distinguished Turkish commentator, journalist and political figure, as a “brutal and senseless attack on democracy and press […]
(IFJ/IFEX) – The following is an IFJ media release:
Media Release
October 21st 1999
IFJ Condemns Murder of Turkish Journalist After Terror Bomb Attack
The International Federation of Journalists today described the killing of
Ahmed Taner Keslali, a distinguished Turkish commentator, journalist and
political figure, as a “brutal and senseless attack on democracy and press
freedom.”
Keslali, a former Culture Minister in Turkey, died after a bomb explosion
wrecked his car this morning in Ankara. The IFJ has been informed that he is
the victim of religious fanatics who killed him because of his critical
journalism against Islamic fundamentalism.
“This killing is another example of growing intolerance around the world,”
said Aidan White, General Secretary of the IFJ, “It is a brutal and
senseless attack on democracy and press freedom and the killers must be
brought to justice.”
The IFJ sent condolences to Keslali’s family and joined with Turkish
journalists in demanding an immediate and full investigation by the Turkish
authorities. “There can be no killing of journalists with impunity. This
attack is another horrifying example of terrorism being used to stifle
freedom of speech. Turkey has a responsibility to lead the way in hunting
down those responsible,” said the IFJ.
Further Information: IFJ: Tel + 32 2 223 2265
The IFJ is the world’s largest organisation of journalists, representing
more than 450,000 journalists in 101 countries.
