Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office launched an ex officio investigation against CHP Chairman Özgür Özel on charges of “insulting the President”, “incitement to commit a crime”, “insulting public officials” and “threatening”. The investigation was launched following Özel’s statements on July 5, in which he reacted to the operations against mayors.
Addressing President Erdoğan, Özel had called for early elections and said, “Don’t make me invite people to the streets.” His statements were described as “provocative” by Presidential Communications Director Fahrettin Altun.
The CHP described the investigation as “an attack on freedom of expression.” CHP leaders emphasized that Özel’s remarks defended the will of the people and included democratic reactions against political interference. İmamoğlu also supported Özel with a poem from prison.
A draft law demanding the lifting of Özel’s parliamentary immunity was also submitted to Parliament. The process will be discussed by the Parliament’s Joint Committee and then the General Assembly.
July 7, 2025
BBC Turkish