(Statement: 369, 27 September 2001)

ZEYNEP ARIKAN BECAME IMMORTAL ON THE 343RD DAY OF THE DEATH FAST ACTION WITH A SMILE ON HER FACE. ZEYNEP ARIKAN IS THE BEST EXAMPLE OF BELIEF AND WILLPOWER. SHE CHALLENGED DEATH BY MARCHING TOWARDS IT ON THE 343RD DAY. ZEYNEP ARIKAN; LOST HER LIFE TODAY AT 04.15 AM

She was born in 1968 in Malatya/Hekimhan. She was studying at the university of Istanbul to be a librarian. She joined the struggle in her youth. She actively participated in the struggle for democratic universities; she was always in the front line during boycotts and occupations. In 1996 she was arrested and sent to Umraniye prison, Istanbul. She joined the first team of Death Fast fighter's on 20 October 2000. After 'operation return to life' on 19th December, she was brought to hospital for forced medical intervention but she refused to accept the treatment. She was released as part of the release game that was put forward by the state in their attempt to bribe the prisoners but she continued her Death Fast action in Armutlu, Istanbul.

Zeynep Arikan's husband Kazim Gulbag sacrificed his life abroad with an act of self-immolation outside a prison in Hamburg. Zeynep Arikan, the Sunnite girl and Alevi bride became a symbol of dignity and honour for 343 days. Zeynep Arikan has shown once again that this resistance will continue. This resistance won't be broken. It will grow even more. It will continue until our just and democratic demands are fulfilled.

The ceremony of Zeynep Arikan in the Gazi neighbourhood of Istanbul was attacked by special police forces and panzers and at least 20 persons have been arrested. Among them are two journalists from the weekly magazine Vatan.