In democratic law states, authorities and responsibilities of any institutions are determined in line with universal standards that are guarantee of democracy and freedoms. Yesterday; the whole Turkey watched the press statement, by Chief of the General Staff, with all attention. Actually, this situation is an open indication about our (Turkey) level in norms of law state.
Chief of General Staff’s, Yaşar Büyük Anıt, statements about agenda on Turkey exceed authorities of military institutions in a normal law state. Chief of General Staff is civil servant, who does not have right to express his opinions related with political issue(s). Considering the history of military coups in Turkey; statements by military members, who have military power, cause pressures on politics. Another distressing point is that statements are made under an atmosphere in which there are discussions about documents related with preparation of a new military coup.
Criteria about to be selected as President are explained in a detailed manner in the Constitution. So, there is no necessary for an extra definition or qualification. Subjective opinions like “the President should have genuine qualifications rather than pseudo” mean intervention in politics.
Defining a political party and a daily paper, which are established in accordance with legal framework, as supporter of “terrorism” is a result of mentality that considers people, even members of political party and media as “terrorist”. Such a definition harms social peace in this crucial period, in which Turkey is in.
Classifying some media organizations as unaccredited means intervention in freedom of press and right to inform. Chief of General Staff’s attempts to legitimize of these violations, which should not be seen in democratic countries, are not right.
Chief of General Staff’s interpretation as “murder of law” about the local court’s decision on Semdinli incidents means intervention in independency of judiciary. Since the judiciary process related with Semdinli incidents still continue, we concern about such statements might affect decision period of the case.
Similarly; sharing opinions, about intervention to Iraq, with public has aims to create pressure on parliamentary will. Actually, the military members should have shared their opinions with the Government rather than public.
While we are preparing this press statement, Nokta Magazine (weekly magazine) is being raided. Indeed, this raid is a good indication that statement causes intervention in freedom of press.
As human rights organizations; we call for everyone to be respect with norms of law state, rights/freedoms and to avoid statements, which cause tension.
HUMAN RIGHTS ASSOCIATION MAZLUMDER