Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç expressed strong disapproval towards CHP Chairman Özgür Özel’s remarks targeting Istanbul Chief Prosecutor Akın Gürlek and the judiciary over the Ahmet Özer investigation. Minister Tunç emphasized that no one has the right to threaten the judiciary, stating, “It is unacceptable to target and threaten the Istanbul Chief Prosecutor and members of the judiciary in an attempt to influence them in the ongoing legal investigation regarding the Mayor of Esenyurt.”
ÖZGÜR ÖZEL’S CONTROVERSIAL STATEMENTS
In response to the arrest and removal of Ahmet Özer from his position as Mayor of Esenyurt, CHP Chairman Özgür Özel made inflammatory comments. Özel directly criticized Istanbul Chief Prosecutor Akın Gürlek and the judiciary, saying, “Akın Gürlek is a ruthless executioner who punishes even the prisoners who wander from hospital to hospital without conscience or mind, but for Akın Gürlek, let justice be slaughtered in every courthouse. This heartless individual will be held accountable to the people.”
MINISTER TUNÇ’S FIRM RESPONSE
Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç condemned Özel’s remarks targeting the judiciary, emphasizing the independence of judges in their roles. Minister Tunç stated:
“The targeting and threatening of Istanbul Chief Prosecutor and members of the judiciary in an attempt to influence them in the ongoing legal investigation regarding the Mayor of Esenyurt is absolutely unacceptable. The Republic of Turkey is a State of Law. Threatening the judiciary is neither the right nor the place of anyone. According to Article 138 of our Constitution; Judges are independent in the performance of their duties. No organ, office, authority, or person can give orders or instructions to courts and judges in the exercise of judicial power.
The targeting and threatening of Istanbul Chief Prosecutor and members of the judiciary in an attempt to influence them in the ongoing legal investigation regarding the Mayor of Esenyurt is absolutely unacceptable. The Republic of Turkey is a State of Law.…
— Yılmaz TUNÇ (@yilmaztunc) October 31, 2024
“ATTEMPTS TO INFLUENCE TRIALS ARE INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE RULE OF LAW”
Making public statements, whether verbal or written, with the aim of influencing fair trials by attempting to influence prosecutors, judges, and courts until an investigation or prosecution is definitively concluded is incompatible with the Rule of Law. Such ugly rhetoric and behavior that interfere with independent judiciary cannot be tolerated in a State of Law.”
In light of these developments, it is crucial to uphold the principles of justice and the rule of law in all legal proceedings. Threatening or attempting to influence the judiciary undermines the very foundation of democracy and the legal system. It is essential for all individuals, regardless of their positions, to respect the independence and integrity of the judiciary in order to maintain a fair and just society.
Implications of Threatening the Judiciary
Threatening the judiciary not only undermines the credibility of legal institutions but also erodes public trust in the justice system. When individuals in positions of power or influence make statements that target judges or prosecutors, it sends a dangerous message that the rule of law can be manipulated or disregarded. This can have far-reaching implications for the functioning of democracy and the protection of citizens’ rights.
Importance of Judicial Independence
Judicial independence is a cornerstone of democracy and the rule of law. Judges must be free from external pressure or influence in order to make impartial and fair decisions based on the law. Any attempt to interfere with the independence of the judiciary threatens the very essence of justice and the protection of individual rights. Upholding judicial independence is essential for upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring that all individuals are treated equally under the law.
Role of Elected Officials in Upholding the Rule of Law
Elected officials, including members of parliament and political party leaders, have a responsibility to uphold the rule of law and respect the independence of the judiciary. By making inflammatory statements or threats against judges or prosecutors, elected officials undermine the integrity of the legal system and weaken the foundation of democracy. It is essential for elected officials to lead by example and demonstrate a commitment to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law in all circumstances.
In conclusion, the recent events surrounding the threats made against Istanbul Chief Prosecutor Akın Gürlek highlight the importance of respecting the independence of the judiciary and upholding the rule of law. It is essential for all individuals, especially those in positions of power, to refrain from making statements or taking actions that undermine the credibility of legal institutions. By upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law, we can ensure a fair and just society for all citizens.
