Trials of former Committee of Union and Progress (C.U.P.) members implicated in a plot against President Mustafa Kemal have entered a significant new phase in Angora, as notable figures face the Independence Tribunal. While some key defendants, including Chukri Bey—a prominent figure associated with Talat and the Armenian massacres—and General Rushdi Pasha, have already been sentenced to death, proceedings continue with the arraignment of Djavid Pasha, a former financial official, alongside other lesser-known ex-Unionists.

The recent Smyrna trial sessions were marked by dramatic and emotive moments, particularly during the testimony of Aiché Hanem, a servant girl in the household of Arif Bey, one of the accused. Her evidence was pivotal in the prosecution’s case, as she confirmed that Arif Bey had harbored Ismail, known as the Lazi assassin, overnight, a claim Arif Bey vehemently denied. Despite his protests, Aiché Hanem’s tearful affirmation that Ismail stayed in the house proved a critical point in the court’s examination.

Another significant testimony came from Kiamil Effendi, a former professor of Islamic law at the Süleymaneit Theological College. During cross-examination, Kiamil explained his departure from the ruling party, citing concerns that the pace of reform, especially in public education and the closure of religious schools, was too rapid. He advocated for a more gradual approach to change, expressing a preference for extending religious colleges alongside secular reforms. While his statements suggested a conservative stance, the court did not find sufficient grounds to label him reactionary.

Bekir Sami Bey, the former Angora Foreign Minister known for defending the Turkish cause at the International Conference in London in 1921, also drew attention during the trial. When questioned about his contacts with Djavid Bey following Chukri Bey’s arrest, Bekir Sami emphasized his confusion over the motives behind the detentions and denied any involvement in conspiracies. In a heartfelt statement, the 62-year-old denied any intent to harm President Kemal—referred to as the Ghazi—stressing his lifelong honesty and disavowing associations with revolutionary or conspiratorial elements.

Bekir Sami’s solemn declaration appeared to profoundly affect the courtroom atmosphere, with judges responding with a rare display of emotion. The presiding judge assured him that the tribunal would thoroughly and fairly evaluate all evidence, promising equity in its proceedings.

As the trials proceed, the Independence Tribunal continues to weigh the evidence against a mix of prominent former officials and lesser-known participants, reflecting the ongoing efforts of the new regime to consolidate power and address alleged threats originating from remnants of the Committee of Union and Progress.