Istanbul- The first hearing of the trial against journalist Eylem Babayiğit on charges of “propagandizing for an illegal organization” was held at the Istanbul 22nd High Criminal Court on Wednesday.

Eylem Babayiğit was present at the hearing monitored by the Mesopotamia Women’s Journalists Association (MKG), the Dicle Fırat Journalists’ Association (DFG), the Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA), DİSK Basın-İş.

“I am a journalist and I define myself as a Kurdish free press worker,” Eylem Babayiğit said during the hearing. I was arrested on charges of membership in an illegal organization for my speeches during the program. I deny all accusations against me.”

The prosecution requested Eylem Babayiğit to be sentenced in prison on charges of “propagandizing for an illegal organization” and her release from prison.

After the prosecution voiced the request, Eylem Babayiğit said, “I will continue to follow the truth.”

The court sentenced Eylem Babayiğit to one year, six months and 22 days in prison on charges of “propagandizing for an illegal organization”, ordering her release.