The trial began on Monday with 151 suspects, including mayors and politicians, and approximately 300 lawyers, along with many local and foreign observers closely following the case. Security was tight around and on the way to the courthouse. Lawyers, journalists, relatives of the suspects and foreign observers were frisked before entering the building. A total of 110 suspects -- 104 of whom are currently jailed -- participated in Wednesday's hearing.

The suspects are being accused, in a 7,578-page indictment, of attempting to disturb the unity of the state, membership and leadership in a terrorist organization and aiding and abetting a terrorist organization, for which they face jail sentences ranging from 15 years to life without the possibility of parole.

The suspects include 28 administrators of the Democratic Society Party (DTP) and also Sabri Ok, the individual in charge of European operations of the outlawed PKK. There are 12 DTP mayors, two city council speakers and two city council members among the suspects.

In yesterday's hearing, the prosecutors read out a summary of the indictment. The prosecution claims that the KCK works under the PKK and organizes attacks during various activities such as the Kurdish festival "Nevruz." Ok, who resides in Europe, gives his orders via e-mail or phone, the prosecution claimed. The prosecution also argues that the Peace and Democracy Party (BDP) was founded under orders from Ok.
-CIHAN-