Ümit Özdağ: “This Is a Political Trial, Not a Legal One”

After 149 days in pre-trial detention, Ümit Özdağ, leader of the Victory Party (Zafer Partisi), delivered a sweeping defense in response to the prosecution’s final opinion, asserting that the case against him was driven by political motivations, not law. Speaking before the 18th Criminal Court of First Instance in Istanbul, Özdağ appealed directly to the judge, saying, “A verdict of acquittal would show that independent judges still exist in Turkey.”

The prosecution, however, formally requested the continuation of his detention.

Accusations of Inciting Hatred and Political Motives

Özdağ stands accused of “publicly inciting hatred and enmity.” He labeled the legal proceedings as a politically motivated investigation, stating that the evidence lacks legal validity and demanding acquittal. “This case is not based on law. It’s built on vengeance,” he argued.

“My Name Isn’t Even in the Evidence”

A key document submitted as evidence—an unsigned, unverified report allegedly prepared by the Kayseri Police Department—was challenged by Özdağ for failing to mention his name or contain any content attributable to him. He noted the posts cited in the report belonged to former party members, questioning how those could be legally tied to him. “Crime is individual. How can I be charged with someone else’s actions?” he asked.

No Call for Violence, No Proven Connection

Dismissing the 25 social media posts cited by the prosecution as evidence, Özdağ argued that none had previously triggered any legal action. He stressed the absence of any call for violence or any direct link between his statements and the events in Kayseri. “If these were truly criminal, investigations would’ve already been launched,” he said.

“This Is an Inquisition, Not a Prosecution”

Calling the process an “inquisition” rather than justice, Özdağ accused the prosecutor of manipulating evidence and promoting a hostile legal doctrine. “This isn’t a case based on law. It’s political revenge. The prosecution doesn’t treat me as a citizen, but as an enemy,” he charged.

“There’s Pressure on Judges — But Stay True to Justice”

Turning to the bench, Özdağ acknowledged the political pressure on the judiciary, yet urged the judge to stand firm: “A fair acquittal today would prove that even if the judiciary isn’t independent, some judges still are.”

“If I Were Pro-Government, I Wouldn’t Be on Trial”

Özdağ directly linked his prosecution to his political stance. “If I supported the government, I wouldn’t be here. The only reason I’m on trial is my political identity,” he declared.

“Fear No One But God”

Ending his defense on an emotional note, Özdağ said, “This trial is not just about me—it’s a test of justice itself. All I ask is that you be fair. Fear no one but God.”

The court has postponed its ruling to a later date following the completion of arguments.