Influence agent provision completely removed from bill: Opposition reacts strongly

The 'Influence Agent' bill, which sparked significant public outcry in Turkey, has been completely removed from the Notary Law bill.

The 'Influence Agent' provision, which was included by the AKP in the 'Bill on Amendments to the Notary Law and Certain Other Laws' and described by critics as a 'witch hunt,' was withdrawn following intense backlash.

The same legislation had been rejected last year after passing through the committee on the grounds that it was unconstitutional. With the AKP's retreat, the 'influence agent law' has been withdrawn for the second time.

Following deliberations in the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM), it was decided to completely remove Article 16, which concerned 'crimes against state secrets and espionage,' from the Notary Law bill.

An 'influence agent' debate erupted in the Justice Committee. 'We do not want prosecutors and judges who take orders from the Palace,' was the sentiment expressed during the committee discussions.

MURAT EMIR HAD ALSO ANNOUNCED IT ON HIS SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT

CHP Group Deputy Chairman Murat Emir had announced yesterday in a statement on his social media account that the bill had been withdrawn as a result of the criticisms.

In his social media post, Emir stated, 'The bill, known in the public eye as the influence agent law, has been withdrawn as of now, following our weeks-long efforts to inform the public with the great support of our people, as well as our work and criticisms in parliament.'