HDP Headquarters was blockaded on the night of November 4 when 10 Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) MPs including the co-chairs were arrested, and the police blockade continues still. Police blocked entry to Büklüm Street with the entrance to the building and didn’t allow party officials and MPs through for five days. Meetings with the Ankara Governorate failed to produce results in this time and no official notice was given to party officials regarding the blockade. Reports say today the blockade was eased a little bit and names given to the police by the party administration were allowed through the barricades.

In a press statement, HDP Party Spokesperson Ayhan Bilgen said they met with the Governorate yesterday and were told that the names approved by the party would be allowed through.

Bilgen said the Governorate cited “security concerns” when asked why the building was blockaded and continued: “This is an arbitrary practice, despite no official decree. It is also hindering party activity. It is unacceptable under any circumstances. Security can’t be achieved by putting up barricades in front of MPs and central executive committee members, by banning entry to party buildings.”

Normal traffic was also cut off due to the police barricades on both ends of the street. No information was given to the party officials on when the barricades will be lifted and entries will return to normal.

Peoples’ Democratic Party Deputy Co-chair Saruhan Oluç made a statement yesterday and said: “We will appeal to all legal options, including international courts, regarding this illegal blockade.”