Tensions rise during budget talks! Journalists blocked from filming
Tensions rose during the Ministry of Justice budget deliberations held in the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM). Commission Chairman Mehmet Muş of the AKP blocked journalists—other than those from TRT and news agencies—from filming the proceedings, drawing backlash from the opposition. A dispute broke out between the CHP and MHP benches. MHP's Feti Yıldız wagged his finger at CHP's Veli Ağbaba.
12punto
The TBMM Planning and Budget Commission convened to discuss the Ministry of Justice's budget. The absence of any protests from the opposition benches had initially created the impression that the commission meeting would proceed calmly, but that was not the case. Commission Chairman Mehmet Muş of the AKP prevented journalists following the proceedings from filming, allowing only news agencies and TRT to record footage in the commission hall.
Parliamentary reporters were warned that 'no filming with mobile phones will be allowed today.' The decision was justified by the crowding in the center of the hall and the difficulty ministers faced in moving around. Only parliamentary advisors were permitted to take footage.
The first reaction to the situation came from the CHP benches. Commission spokesperson Veli Ağbaba reacted to the situation and expressed his support for the journalists.
MHP'S FETI YILDIZ WAGGED HIS FINGER AT CHP'S VELI AĞBABA
The first response to Ağbaba came from the MHP benches. MHP Deputy Chairman Feti Yıldız wagged his finger at Ağbaba, saying, “Enough, be quiet! How much longer are you going to talk?"
As other opposition deputies joined the argument, Mehmet Muş took the floor. In response to the opposition's question, "Why can't journalists film?", AKP's Muş replied, "TRT is right here."
MINISTER OF JUSTICE SURPRISED
According to Sözcü TV reporter Aslı Kurtuluş Mutlu, Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç watched the unfolding events in astonishment amidst all the arguments.
Following the dispute, the commission was adjourned.