3 CHP mayors in custody: Yılmaz Tunç defends the operations!

Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç responded to criticisms regarding the new operations launched against CHP-run municipalities this morning via the social media platform X.

Defending the operations with the words, "It is unthinkable for the judiciary to remain indifferent in the presence of strong suspicion of a crime," Tunç stated, "No one is above the law. Everyone, including those performing public duties, is subject to judicial oversight."

In his statement, emphasizing respect for the law, Tunç said, "What everyone who respects the law must do is wait for the decision to be rendered by the judiciary, respect the legal process, and avoid attitudes that would cast a shadow over a fair trial."

Tunç's words are as follows:

"The judicial investigations initiated by the relevant Chief Public Prosecutor's Offices regarding allegations of bribery and extortion concerning the mayors of Antalya, Manavgat, Adana, and Adıyaman are being conducted in accordance with the requirements of the law and entirely within legal boundaries.

In accordance with Article 160 of the Criminal Procedure Code; "When a situation arises that gives the impression that a crime has been committed, the public prosecutor is obliged to immediately begin an investigation to uncover the material truth and decide whether or not to file a public lawsuit."

It is unthinkable for the judiciary to remain indifferent in the presence of strong suspicion of a crime. In the face of the evidence and allegations presented by the Chief Public Prosecutor's Offices, the defense rights of the individuals in the position of suspects are under guarantee. 

No one is above the law. Everyone, including those performing public duties, is subject to judicial oversight. Portraying the judicial proceedings carried out during the investigation phase as "political," "biased," or "intentional" are irresponsible accusations that directly harm the impartiality and independence of the judiciary and aim to undermine it.

Prejudgments made without knowing the contents of the files, such as "there is no crime here" or "a crime has definitely been committed," are statements aimed at influencing the investigation.

In particular, black propaganda targeting members of the judiciary by certain circles harms judicial processes and legal security.

Those who dare to associate judicial investigations with our President in a disrespectful and insolent manner, making baseless and low-level accusations, are in fact directly attacking the judiciary, the law, and the constitutional order. 

Statements containing insults and threats directed at the independent judicial authorities conducting the investigation are clearly attempts to pressure the judiciary, prevent the manifestation of justice, and mislead the public. 

Such aggressive and irresponsible rhetoric is absolutely unacceptable. While the judicial process is ongoing, no one can have the audacity to put themselves in the place of a judge or prosecutor and pass judgment. 

What everyone who respects the law must do is wait for the decision to be rendered by the judiciary, respect the legal process, and avoid attitudes that would cast a shadow over a fair trial."