Main opposition MP Ozkan faces investigation over offensive remarks against President Erdogan

Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc announced on Sunday that an investigation has been launched against Türkiye’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) Izmir MP Tuncay Ozkan, following his remarks about President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The investigation stems from Ozkan’s offensive comments criticizing President Erdogan’s recent speech in Türkiye’s Bitlis, which he described as offensive.

Ozkan had remarked, “Sit in the palace, sit on the throne, play with dollars and billions, let extravagance and waste be your companions, the wealthy your friends, and you call us ‘addicted to show-off’? The dungeons are ours, the palaces are yours, we are the showy ones? Are you jealous? You palace snob! We demand early elections. I dare you!”

This is unacceptable, says Minister Tunc

Minister Tunc made the announcement on social media, stating that the Izmir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office had initiated the investigation against Ozkan for insulting and slandering President Erdogan.

In his statement, Minister Tunc defended President Erdogan, emphasizing his connection to the Turkish people and his dedication to serving the nation.

Tunc condemned Ozkan’s remarks, calling them “disrespectful and immoral,” and stated that such comments against a democratically elected president are “utterly unacceptable.”

“I strongly condemn the disrespectful and immoral statements of a person who holds the identity of a Member of Parliament and disregards the values of the nation,” he added.