Opposition leader Ozgur Ozel under probe for remarks on Istanbul chief prosecutor
Leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP) Ozgur Ozel speaks during his party's group meeting at the Turkish Grand National Assembly in Ankara, Türkiye on November 05, 2024. (AA Photo)
The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation against Ozgur Ozel, chairman of the Turkish main opposition party CHP.
The investigation follows statements he made regarding Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor Akın Gurlek, who is accused of insulting a public official and targeting individuals involved in counterterrorism efforts. A report on Ozel’s remarks has been sent to Ankara.
What did Ozgur Ozel say
Directly addressing Gurlek during a speech at Marmara Cezaevi, Ozel said: “Akin Gurlek, you will pay for your crimes. One day, I will still be standing here, while you may attack us from some social media account abroad. Or, you will face the consequences of your illegal actions. If you suffer an injustice, we will defend your rights.”
Ozel continued his criticism, urging Gurlek to resign: “I call on Akın Gurlek: repent, resign, step down. Publicly admit, ‘I was wrong, and I regret it.’ Let us be the guarantor of your future. If you confess your mistakes and step down, you can go practice law in peace. Live with honor, even if it means selling simits. I warn you, don’t play with the fate of a nation, don’t become anyone’s pawn.”
In response to these remarks, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into Ozel. The inquiry focuses on allegations of insulting a public official and inciting hostility against those working in counterterrorism efforts.
