Don't Mention It

There was a lot to talk about in Turkey --the outcome of the trial of Menderes & Co., the promised October election to replace the present junta, and the reasons for the surprisingly large (38%) "no" vote in the constitutional referendum. But last week General Cemal Gursel, chief of the interim revolutionary government, decreed that the talk was dangerous. He issued a nine-point edict outlawing all discussions of the new constitution, all gossip, rumors or propaganda (whether foreign or locally inspired) aimed at "disturbing public order and influencing public opinion." Furthermore, proclaimed Gursel, political parties would not be permitted to conduct any kind of campaigns except to set up conventions in strict conformance with the law, nor could they print or distribute pamphlets concerning the constitution or the election.

Conversation in coffeehouses, bars and market places all over Turkey was suddenly reduced to the "how's-the-wife-and-kids" level. Although no arrests have been reported, few citizens were willing to test the law by speaking out among any but their closest friends.

Gursel had apparently decided that the large "no"' vote in the referendum indicated a dangerously large body of opposition to his military rule. But it was questionable whether his panicky edicts had made his regime any more popular. The newly ratified constitution promises: "Every person has freedom of thought and conviction and can reveal and publish his thoughts and convictions by way of speech, writing, illustration, or by other means, either singly or jointly." Demanded one silenced Turk bitterly: "Menderes and company are on trial for their lives for violating the constitutional rights of citizens. Isn't this exactly the same thing?"

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