Share and Follow
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent appointment of Akin Gurlek, a former chief prosecutor, has sparked significant controversy. Opposition legislators made a dramatic attempt to prevent Gurlek from taking his oath of office earlier today.
The scene quickly escalated into chaos, with video footage capturing punches being exchanged among the members of parliament. Security personnel intervened to separate the clashing MPs, though reports have yet to confirm whether any injuries occurred or if disciplinary actions will follow for those involved in the fracas.
Gurlek’s appointment is contentious due to his tenure as Istanbul’s chief prosecutor starting in 2021. He played a pivotal role in the sentencing of high-profile opposition figures such as Selahattin Demirtas and Sirri Sureyya Onder. His involvement in these cases has drawn criticism and accusations of political bias, particularly from the main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), which has described the legal proceedings as politically driven.
In his previous role as Istanbul chief prosecutor from 2021, Gurlek had been involved in the sentencing of several prominent opposition politicians, including Selahattin Demirtas and Sirri Sureyya Onder.
He was also the lead prosecutor in multiple trials involving members of the main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), which has labelled the proceedings politically motivated.
Despite the drama within the parliament, Gurlek was able to swear his oath later on, surrounded by other members of the ruling party who had formed a protective circle around him.
Demonstrations have been held in Turkey over the last year, including when Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu was arrested in a corruption probe.
The government has previously insisted the judiciary is independent.
Reported with Associated Press
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.