The Mardin Bar Association Human Rights Commission and the Labor and Democracy Platform held a press conference to condemn the recent appointment by the Turkish government of trustees to replace DEM Party co-mayors in three municipalities. As an act of protest, they initiated a vigil in front of the Mardin municipality building, signaling their commitment to oppose what they consider a blatant violation of democratic principles.

Speaking on behalf of the Mardin Bar Association Human Rights Commission, lawyer Rojhat Karaboğa said that the appointments of trustees are illegal and that the commission will pursue legal avenues to challenge this policy. Former Mardin Bar Association President Ismail Elik called the appointment an affront to both justice and public trust. He insisted that all municipalities where trustees have been imposed, must be returned to elected leaders.

Mücahit Cevheroğlu, representing the Labor and Democracy Platform, criticized the AKP-MHP coalition government, accusing it of systematically undermining democratic will. "These municipalities belong to the people," he stated. "They will continue to be symbols of local governance by and for the people."

After the statements, citizens and political figures began an overnight vigil in front of the municipality building, vowing to maintain their protest until democratic rights are restored.