First statement from Minister Gürlek following the absolute nullity ruling: A decision that will strengthen faith in democracy

Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç made statements regarding the absolute nullity ruling concerning the CHP.

Stating that "a democratic decision has been made," Minister Tunç pointed out that the will lies with the nation and the delegates.

Tunç noted that the path to appeal for the decision is open and expressed that everyone should respect the ruling.

Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç made statements following the absolute nullity ruling in the CHP:

'THE ESSENCE OF DEMOCRACY IS THE WILL OF THE NATION'

"The Republic of Turkey is a democratic state governed by the rule of law. The essence of democracy is the will of the nation. The free manifestation of this will at the ballot box, in congresses, in conventions, or in any democratic process is also of vital importance for the existence and functionality of a democratic state governed by the rule of law.

'IT IS UNACCEPTABLE FOR THE WILL OF THE DELEGATE TO BE COMPROMISED'

The Ankara Regional Court of Justice 36th Civil Chamber has issued an important ruling today. At the center of this ruling lies the direct protection of democratic will. Because, regardless of which party is involved, it is unacceptable for the will of the delegate and the member to be compromised by interests, pressure, or manipulation.

'THE PROCESS BEGAN WITH THE APPLICATIONS OF CHP DELEGATES THEMSELVES'

It must be especially emphasized that this process began with the applications of the Republican People's Party (CHP) delegates themselves; it was shaped by the statements and testimonies of these same CHP delegates. Judicial authorities have also examined the allegations, investigation files, witness accounts, and evidence obtained with meticulous care, reaching a decision in an independent and impartial manner.

'IT HAS BEEN CONCLUDED THAT THE WILL OF THE DELEGATE WAS COMPROMISED'

As a result of the evaluations made, it has been concluded that the will of the delegates during the convention process held on November 4-5, 2023, was compromised in a way that would affect the outcome of the convention. The court has determined that allegations regarding benefits provided to some delegates or promises made to them undermined the freedom and equality of the election process.

I would like to underline here that the duty of the judiciary is to ensure the rule of law. Election security is valid not only for general elections but also for the internal processes of political parties. Because political parties are the indispensable elements and supporting columns of democracy. The damaging of these columns means the direct damaging of democracy itself.

'THE DECISION REINFORCED TRUST IN DEMOCRACY'

Therefore, this ruling is a decision that reinforces our citizens' trust in democracy and shows that democracy's own self-protection mechanisms are functioning. A state governed by the rule of law is a state that handles allegations seriously and evaluates them with their evidence.

'THE PATH TO APPEAL IS OPEN'

Of course, the path to appeal for this decision is open. The process will continue to operate within the legal framework. It is of great importance that everyone respects this process, makes their evaluations within the framework of the law, and carries out their objections within the legal order.

'THE WILL BELONGS TO THE NATION, TO THE DELEGATE'

For us, the fundamental principle is clear: The will belongs to the nation. It belongs to the delegate. It belongs to the members. The state governed by the rule of law stands tall against any element that casts a shadow over this will. Turkey will continue with determination to strengthen its democracy with law, justice, and commitment to the national will."