NGOs in Diyarbakýr has stated yesterday that the Turkish government is committing a crime by denying Abdullah Öcalan's lawyers access to their client and called for a start to negotiations. They also pointed out that Öcalan has a key role to play in the negotiation of a solution to the Kurdish issue.

Human Rights Association (ÝHD) Diyarbakýr Branch Secretary Raci Bilici said; "Öcalan's isolation is a violation of human rights; the right of a prisoner's family and lawyers to visit the prisoner is one of the most basic of human rights. In addition, the vast majority of Kurds accept Öcalan as their leader, so there could be very serious consequences if this situation is mishandled. Lessons should be taken from past events and this isolation should end immediately."

Electrical Engineers Chamber (EMO) Diyarbakýr Branch Chair, Ýdris Ekmen also discussed the subject; "Öcalan occupies a very important place in Turkey's dilemma of war and peace. When the government negotiated with Mr. Öcalan, our expectations turned into hope, and we were very close to peace. If they do not want blood, tears and death, the only thing to do is to end Öcalan's isolation and bring the idea of house arrest to the agenda."

Þemsettin Koç, Chair of the Diyarbakýr Branch of the Medical Chamber added his remarks on the issue; "When this kind of isolation was previously experienced, people reacted by shaving their heads. A repetition of these kinds of violent conditions will not help public life or the economy. All forces that can work towards peace need to contribute in this period of time."

Confederation of Trade Unions of Public Employees (KESK) spokesperson Seyfettin Polat said; "The meetings on Imralý gave us hope. Our hope is that this conflict is resolved by peaceful means and that he parties talk to each other."

As it is known lawyers have been denied to visit their client since July 27, the day of the last meeting.