The imprisoned Co-chair of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) Figen Yüksekdağ, who is jailed in Kandıra F Type Prison since November of 2016, wrote the following letter to the Dutch parliamentarians Sadet Karabulut, Bram van Ojik, Han ten Broeke, Kirsten van den Hul, Raymond de Roon, Joël Voordewind, Raymond Knops, Marianne Thieme, Sjoerd Sjoerdsma and Kees van der Staaij in response to their solidarity messages.

“Dear friends, dear parliamentarians,

First of all, I would like to say that I am delighted to receive your letter and solidarity messages. On behalf of my friends and myself I thank you for the sensitivity and solidarity you have shown both internationally and at your parliament.

Unfortunately, there is not much that has changed in terms of fundamental rights and freedoms in Turkey since our arrest twelve months ago. The pressure and attacks on the press, freedom of expression and political rights are getting graver. The state of emergency regime has captivated the forces of democracy, peace and labor in our country, national and religious differences, and especially the women.

However, as the co-chairs and deputies of HDP under arrest, we are committed to our objectives and program under all circumstances. Despite multiple odds, I assure you that our hope and determination for success is strong. I hope we will overcome this difficult period and have the opportunity to meet under free conditions in a democratic Turkey. 

Finally, I would like to convey solidarity and friendship messages of the women deputies, co-mayors and politicians who are in the same prison with me, and I wish you success.”