Political prisoner Ali Koç, who was released on Wednesday after 34 years in prison, has returned to his hometown of Amed (tr. Diyarbakır). He was welcomed today by his family, representatives of the prisoner solidarity organization TUHAYDER, and other NGO members in the Bağlar district.
“My heart has remained with the prisoners”
The reception was marked by visible joy. With slogans such as “Long live resistance in prisons,” those present welcomed the released prisoner. In a brief speech, Koç underlined that his release cannot be considered independently of the situation of political prisoners who are still incarcerated. “I spent many years in prison, but our friends are still there. My heart has remained with them,” he said.
“Freedom for Abdullah Öcalan”
Koç stated that he cannot truly feel free as long as the prisoners are not free. He said he therefore does not see his own release as an end, but as part of an ongoing struggle. Koç combined his remarks with a call: “The freedom of our friends in prison and the freedom of Abdullah Öcalan are our task.” Koç also expressed his belief that this goal can only be achieved collectively. After the reception, Koç went to his family home together with those present.
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