The case of Kenan Ayaz and how he was handed over by the Republic of Cyprus to the German authorities for trial is well known. Kenan Ayaz was recently sentenced to four years and three months in prison by a German court. On what charge? On the charge of “participation in a terrorist organisation.”
Apparently, the German justice system considers the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) a “terrorist” organisation. In reality, it is an anti-occupation liberation movement against the Turkish occupation.
Neither the PKK is a terrorist organisation, nor did the convicted individual engage in terrorist activities. Unless, of course, political activism and the expression of certain positions are now considered “terrorism.”
We have previously discussed the actions of the Republic of Cyprus, with which we disagreed at the time, and we continue to disagree today, as we have been proven right.
Kenan Ayaz was handed over to the German authorities to be tried and convicted, and this was not a coincidence. Turkey’s role in this entire affair cannot be overlooked.
However, we are now looking at the next steps. The trial has taken place, and Kenan Ayaz has been convicted.
The key issue now is where he will serve his sentence. Given the conditions set by the Larnaca District Court in its decision for his extradition, these must be respected.
He must not be extradited to Turkey, as such a move would put his life in danger. It would be akin to sending him to a firing squad.
At the same time, we believe that the Republic of Cyprus should request that the German state allow Kenan Ayaz to serve his sentence in Cyprus. This was, after all, one of the conditions set by the Cypriot justice system.
Kenan Ayaz is a recognised political refugee by the Republic of Cyprus, which does not consider the Kurdistan Workers’ Party to be a terrorist organisation. And it does not, because it isn’t.
Given the events surrounding Ayaz’s extradition and conviction, we believe that the next step for Nicosia is to request from Berlin that the Kurdish activist be sent to Cyprus to serve his prison sentence.
This is necessary. This is what must be done.
