Turkish authorities launched separate legal proceedings against politician Saliha Sera Kadıgil and journalist Ertuğrul Özkök on the same day, according to statements issued by the Istanbul and Ankara Chief Public Prosecutors’ Offices. The actions involve allegations concerning statements made about President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during public political events and media appearances.
Ankara Investigation Targets TİP Lawmaker Over Rally Remarks
Ankara Chief Public Prosecutors initiated an investigation against Türkiye İşçi Partisi (TİP) Istanbul Milletvekili Saliha Sera Kadıgil on charges of “insulting the President” and “making threats,” according to the prosecutor’s office. Authorities stated that the inquiry stems from remarks Kadıgil delivered during a party meeting in İzmir, where she addressed attendees regarding President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
During the TİP İzmir Public Gathering, Kadıgil used the phrase, “Getting rid of Tayyip Erdoğan is our biggest and number one priority and I swear we will get rid of him, I give you my word we will get rid of him, have no doubt about that either,” as detailed in the event record. In the same speech, while addressing claims that İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Cemil Tugay might switch to the AKP, Kadıgil stated, “We hope he doesn’t have the crime to make himself endure such a baseness as switching to the AKP.”
Did You Know? Saliha Sera Kadıgil serves as an Istanbul lawmaker representing the Türkiye İşçi Partisi (TİP), and her recent remarks leading to the Ankara investigation were delivered directly at her party’s public gathering in İzmir.
A second proceeding was opened by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutors’ Office against journalist Ertuğrul Özkök under the accusation of “insulting the President,” officials announced. The statement released by the head prosecutor’s office notes that the investigation targets comments Özkök made while participating in a broadcast program. Official records confirm that no detention decision has been issued for Özkök in connection with the ongoing inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is facing the investigation in Ankara?
Türkiye İşçi Partisi (TİP) Istanbul Milletvekili Saliha Sera Kadıgil is the subject of the inquiry launched by the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutors’ Office.
What are the specific accusations against Saliha Sera Kadıgil?
According to the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutors, Kadıgil faces allegations of “insulting the President” and “making threats” due to her statements at a political rally in İzmir.
Is journalist Ertuğrul Özkök under a detention order?
No, official records from the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutors’ Office state that there is no detention decision concerning Ertuğrul Özkök.