MHP backtracks: 'We did not threaten journalists'

MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli, in his speech at Parliament yesterday, used harsh language toward journalists and media owners, making threatening statements. Targeting certain media outlets and commentators, particularly Halk TV, Bahçeli said, "We have noted down the MHP enemies nesting in TV stations, the so-called commentators, and the owners of Halk TV one by one. When the time comes, we will make them pay dearly."

Bahçeli's statements caused a major stir in the media world. Halk TV Chairman of the Board Cafer Mahiroğlu reacted sharply to Bahçeli's remarks. Mahiroğlu stated, "The privilege of threatening the owner of Halk TV cannot be hidden behind any identity. Halk TV's stance is clear. No matter what happens, we will continue to tell the truth."

REACTION FROM CHP LEADER ÖZEL

CHP Chairman Özgür Özel reacted sharply to Bahçeli's threatening of journalists. Özel had stated, "You cannot threaten the press. We are in front of them and behind them. If a single hair on a journalist's head is harmed, let our nation know that Bahçeli is responsible."

MHP'S BÜYÜKATAMAN: THERE IS NO THREAT

Following Bahçeli's statements, MHP Secretary-General İsmet Büyükataman issued a written statement, arguing that their party did not make threats toward journalists. Büyükataman noted the following:

"Let everyone know this well, the Nationalist Movement Party has not threatened anyone. We stand with all members of the press who uphold professional honor and do their jobs properly. However, we will always maintain our stance against those who report false news about our party and politics, distort the politics of our Chairman, and organize smear campaigns. The Nationalist Movement Party will never allow Halk TV's lies and the CHP's divisive rhetoric targeting our Republic to pass."

News Source: 12punto