Even Erdoğan backs the release of Turkey’s brightest opposition leader. So why is he still in jail? | Kaya Genç

Selahattin Demirtaş, a prominent Kurdish politician and human rights lawyer, has spent a decade in prison on politically motivated charges. His rise began in 2010 as the leader of the pro-Kurdish Peace and Democracy Party, gaining significant support in elections. Despite his imprisonment, Demirtaş has continued to write, publishing seven books, including a celebrated short-story collection. Recent political changes in Turkey have sparked hope for his release, especially after a European court ruled his imprisonment was unjust. His wife has been a constant support, visiting him weekly, while Turkish political leaders have begun to advocate for his freedom. Demirtaş's influence persists, inspiring progressive movements both in Turkey and abroad.