Reactions to the detainment of Amed Metropolitan Municipality Co-mayors Gültan Kışanak and Fırat Anlı, who remain in custody since October 25, are growing.

Yet another criticism regarding the detainment of Co-mayors came from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Ravina Shamdasani said in a press briefing that they were very concerned about the arrests of Gültan Kışanak and Firat Anlı on terrorism-related charges.

Shamdasani said Ms Kışanak and Mr Anlı’s arrests are the latest in a series of arrests affecting democratically elected representatives over the past few months in eastern and southeastern Turkey. She recalled that dozens have been suspended from public office and many detained recently.

Shamdasani also expressed concerns over other professional groups, including civil servants, who have been affected by measures taken under the state of emergency. She remarked that in the absence of access, the UN Human Rights Office continues to observe the situation remotely and that they will be providing more updates.

OHCHR Spokesperson reminded the Turkish authorities that even during a state of emergency, the principles of legality, proportionality and necessity, due process guarantees and the presumption of innocence – fundamental requirements for a fair trial – must be respected.

Shamdasani also called on the Government to ensure full respect for human rights and maximum transparency in the administration of justice.