Union of Turkish Bar Associations criticizes investigations into CHP mayors

The Union of Turkish Bar Associations (TBB) has issued a statement regarding the ongoing investigations into CHP provincial and district mayors. The statement emphasized that the principle that "freedom is the rule and restriction is the exception" must be applied immediately, and noted that investigations should be conducted in a swift and transparent manner.

The TBB expressed that mayors should be under greater legal protection due to their public duties and their representation of the popular will. The statement said, "The application of severe measures against local administrators who have come to office through the votes of the people, without sufficient justification, undermines legal security and local democracy."

THE RIGHT TO A FAIR TRIAL MUST BE GUARANTEED

The statement referred to Articles 2, 19, and 38 of the Constitution, noting that the principles of the rule of law, personal liberty and security, and the presumption of innocence must be meticulously observed by judicial authorities. It stated, "Practices that would restrict the right to defense must be avoided, and the right to a fair trial must be guaranteed."

Furthermore, the state's responsibilities regarding the health conditions of detainees were recalled, and it was emphasized that detainees with health problems should be released immediately.

WE WILL CONTINUE TO FOLLOW THE PROCESS IN ALL ITS DIMENSIONS

The Union of Turkish Bar Associations stated that practices contrary to universal legal norms harm legal security, and announced that they will continue to closely monitor the process and inform the public.

News Source: 12punto