Following the military coup attempt in Turkey on the 15th of July 2016, many concerns on the Alevi people’s safety have been a primary issue in both Turkey and other countries where Alevis reside.
The meeting that took place in the outskirts of English Parliament, Alevi Secretariat and Labour MP Joan Ryan, Labour MP and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs Catherine West and Britain Alevi Federation President İsrafil Erbil made speeches on the current situations. Joan Ryan, making her speech, said “We are all here with a high level of concern on what’s been happening in Turkey and the reports we are receiving about the impact of this on all the community but especially for the Alevi community. We wish to condemn the attempt of coup and call for an immediate return to the constitutional order in Turkey. We would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of those who died. There is no sense that any reason can justify violence. In the aftermath of the coup, there have been worrying reports emerging about attacks on civilians. We must guarantee the safety of all communities in Turkey, particularly minority groups. I therefore urge President Erdoğan to maintain stability uphold peace immediately”.
Carrying on the meeting’s agenda, president of Britain Alevi Federation İsrafil Erbil said “Whatever happened on the 15th of July, in the aftermath of the coup attempt, Alevi people have been receiving threats and we have been receiving reports on hostility. We ask for diplomacy to resume immediately”. Getting on with her speech, Catherine West MP said they had been watching the Friday night’s news with horror and concern as the event have unfolded and called for an emergency diplomatic step by the Turkish Government. West said “We share the tears of those families who lost their lives at the attempted coup. We will be working very close with our friends here in the UK to improve the peace. We share your concern and we are on your side and we are committed to maintain the stability and concerns”.
“METROPOLITAN POLICE IS READY TO HELP”
Speaking to Londra Gazete reporters, BAF President İsrafil Erbil said there have been an increasing number of anxiety amongst Alevi residents in London and therefore the Metropolitan Police would like to know any reports, suspicious behaviour and harassment that threatens Alevi and any other residents’ comfort.
