Bahçeli supports Özel’s TRT trial broadcast call: Indictments must be completed without delay
MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli supports CHP Chair Özgür Özel’s call for live trial broadcasts on TRT, calling the demand legitimate and warning that judicial delays could deepen political divisions.
Editor2
Bahçeli supports Özel’s TRT trial broadcast call: “Indictments must be completed without delay”
YEREL GÜNDEM / ANKARA
A rare convergence: Opposition and government voices align on judicial transparency
In a noteworthy show of unity across political lines, MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli has voiced support for CHP Chair Özgür Özel’s call for court proceedings to be broadcast live on TRT, Turkey’s public broadcaster. Emphasizing the principle of transparency in judicial processes, Bahçeli described the opposition’s proposal as both “reasonable and legitimate,” asserting that public access to trials would strengthen trust in the judiciary.
“Delays fuel polarization,” Bahçeli warns
Speaking shortly after Özel’s comments, Bahçeli expressed concern about the extended duration of judicial proceedings, which he suggested could deepen political tensions. “Indictments should be swiftly prepared, and prosecutions must be completed effectively and without delay,” Bahçeli stated. “We have full confidence in our prosecutors — their commitment is evident day and night,” he added.
He also underlined that dragging out legal processes risks political polarization. “Trials must not become tools of division in our society,” he warned, calling for the judiciary to complete its duties as the new judicial year begins.
Özgür Özel: “Let the nation hear the accusations — and the answers”
Earlier, CHP leader Özgür Özel had called for live broadcasts of high-profile trials to ensure fairness and public access to justice. “If the goal is truth, then let the trials be aired on TRT. Let both the charges and the responses be heard,” he said. Özel added, “We are not saying that Ekrem İmamoğlu should not be tried — we are asking for a fair and non-custodial trial.”
Bahçeli, in turn, responded positively to this proposal, stating, “The opposition has made a request. We hope it is taken seriously, as it reflects legitimate expectations.”
Judicial reform and political accountability at the forefront
In a broader political address, Bahçeli touched on corruption allegations surrounding several CHP-affiliated municipalities. He claimed that “local administrations have rotted,” accusing some CHP mayors of turning their offices into “organized criminal hubs.” Citing the ongoing investigations into the mayors of Adana and Adıyaman, Bahçeli emphasized the need for what he termed “clean politics.”
He urged that trials related to public corruption be accelerated to restore public confidence. “Justice delayed is justice denied. Let the guilty be held accountable, and let the innocent walk free — in full public view,” Bahçeli stated.
Political rhetoric heats up: Bahçeli rebukes Özel's street protest remark
Bahçeli also criticized Özel’s recent statement implying readiness for mass street protests. “I know when to call people to the streets,” Özel had said. In response, Bahçeli warned: “If your street obsession leads you to crime, you will face the Republic of Turkey itself.”
He called Özel’s reference to Egypt’s Tahrir Square “reckless and irresponsible,” adding that “a politician who speaks of coups or uses military metaphors has no respect for democracy.” A criminal investigation has been launched over Özel’s comments, which Bahçeli deemed appropriate.
A crossroad for Turkish democracy
Both leaders’ remarks come at a time of heightened political and judicial scrutiny, with several ongoing high-profile cases dominating the national agenda. Bahçeli’s unexpected endorsement of Özel’s transparency demand may open new dialogue on the role of media in the justice system — and on how democratic institutions function in periods of polarization.
#Bahçeli #Özel #TRTYayın #ŞeffafYargı #SiyasiGerginlik #AdaletReformu #CanlıDuruşma
