“Whatever they are called, straw or anything else. We will burn it down. We will burn it down with all its extensions. We do not need great fires or fuel because they are straw. A match will suffice,” Pamukoğlu threatened. “Saman” means “straw” in English, but “Samanyolu” means “Milky Way.”
STV was Pamukoğlu’s target due to broadcasts that have helped expose plans for a coup d’état by the Turkish military and anti-democratic initiatives devised by the Ergenekon terrorist organization, which is accused of plotting to overthrow the government. The station has sought to strengthen Turkish democracy through its broadcasts. Pamukoğlu’s threats drew a harsh reaction from STV. Metin Yıkar, editor-in-chief of the station, responded to the threats in a written statement.
“We all know that Turkey is going through hard times. Believing that the country is superior to its own life, STV has shared all plots, plans and everything going on with its viewers since the very first day of its broadcasts and continues to do so. Journalism necessitates this. Responsibilities on our shoulders oblige us to share the truth with the public. Indeed, journalism brings with it certain risks. Realities do not make everyone happy every time. There may be people like Osman Pamukoğlu who are upset when they fail to receive interest and start to utter threats when they are upset. Pamukoğlu is no longer a member of the military. He is the leader of a political party. He should learn to show civilian reflexes and become more tolerant. … STV has been appreciated for its broadcasts since the day it was established. It is among the country’s most trusted television stations. To trust is tantamount to stand by and protect. Pamukoğlu, who failed to gather more than 40 or 50 people in rallies, may utter threats, but the public knows very well who is who,” read the statement.
