Ibrahim Kasun, who served as deputy mayor for three terms during BDP and DBP municipal administration in Dersim, spoke to ANF about the 31 March local elections. 

With a few days to go before the elections, Kasun walks the streets of Dersim with the Revolutionary Forces Union candidates, canvassing door to door, neighbourhood to neighbourhood.

Kasun said that voters are determined to return the municipality to its real representatives.

Kasun said that the candidates of the Revolutionary Forces Union enjoyed full support. 

Kasun, who served as deputy mayor for 9 years both with the BDP and the, was unlawfully issued with the Decree Law No. 677 on 22 November 2016 following the OHAL (State of Emergency) declaration and imprisoned for 10 months. 

Today, with co-mayor candidates Nurşat Yeşil and Hıdır Demir he goes canvassing, talking to people and explaining the election manifesto. 

Kasun said to be sure that the State-appointed trustees will be sent back to Ankara and added that despite the climate of fear and concern, voters will manage to claim back the municipality. 

Stating that many people had to emigrate because of the government's oppression policies, Kasun pointed out that the number of registered voters in the 24 June elections, which was around 23,200, dropped to 22,600 according to the list received from Supreme Elections Body. 

Emphasizing that all the pressure, intimidation and dirty tricks will not be successful, Kasun underlined that Dersim residents are determined to send the trustees back to Ankara. 

“The people - he said - are waiting for the town hall to be returned to their chosen representatives as the trustees have usurped their place and in fact has done something for the city.”