Withdrawn due to opposition backlash: 'Influence agent' regulation returns to Parliament

The "influence agent" regulation, which was withdrawn some time ago following harsh reactions from the opposition, is being brought back to the agenda of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) by the AKP. AKP Deputy Group Chairperson Özlem Zengin announced that they had listened to the opposition's objections but, as no alternative proposal was forthcoming, the regulation would be reconsidered.

IT WAS WITHDRAWN DUE TO OPPOSITION BACKLASH

The influence agent regulation had caused a major stir in public opinion due to the new sanctions planned under espionage crimes. The draft, which the opposition described as a "blow to freedom of expression," had been withdrawn following the criticisms received.

According to a report by Gazete Duvar, AKP Deputy Group Chairperson Zengin met with the deputy group chairpersons of the opposition parties to listen to their objections regarding the regulation. Officials from the National Intelligence Organization (MİT) also attended the meeting to provide information on the purpose of the regulation. AKP officials emphasized that no concrete proposal for change had been received from the opposition and stated that they would put the regulation back on the agenda of the TBMM.

WHAT IS AN INFLUENCE AGENT?

In politics, influence agency is the sum of all strategies and tactics used to achieve political goals or to influence public opinion. Influence agents work to support the interests of political parties or governments to promote certain political moves and candidates.

News Source: 12punto