Madagascar Activities of Voluntary Means Assistance and Solidarity Association
Voluntary Means Assistance and Solidarity Association has been continuing its humanitarian aid work in Madagascar for about five years. The association recently carried out a series of humanitarian aid programs with a team of 6 volunteers in Toliara, approximately 900 km away from the capital Antananarivo. However, during this process, an unexpected and unfair obstruction was encountered.
Detention Process of Association President Ahmet Temel
Association President Ahmet TemelWhile he was organizing an exam for students in Toliara within the framework of cooperation with the Turkish Maarif Foundation, he was called to the police station upon the instructions of the prosecutor’s office. Although Temel gave his statement, he was not released for more than 24 hours. Ahmet Temel, who has been detained since yesterday morning, had to spend the night in inappropriate conditions at the police station.
Show of Support from Those in Need
As Ahmet Temel’s detention period extended, humanitarian aid activities in the region came to a halt. While the association provides hot meals, clean water, bread and other aid to those in need on a daily basis, these distributions have become impossible. People in need gathered in front of the police station to support Temel. However, this demonstration of support was quickly dispersed by the police. Thus, Malagasy people in need once again became victims.
Support from the Embassy
Regarding the subject, Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Madagascarcontacted local authorities and began monitoring the situation. People in need gathered in front of the police station to support Ahmet Temel.
Suspension of Humanitarian Aid Activities
The unjust detention of Ahmet Temel had a negative impact on humanitarian aid efforts in the region. Those in need demand Temel’s release as soon as possible.
