EP Rapporteur Amor Reacts to Ataşehir Mayor's Detention

The detention of Ataşehir Mayor Onursal Adıgüzel has drawn sharp criticism from Nacho Sánchez Amor, the European Parliament's rapporteur on Turkey. Amor unequivocally condemned the action, labeling it a "slander campaign" and a "fake midnight operation," suggesting a politically motivated move against a member of the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP).

Amor's statement, made via social media, underscores a pattern of alleged judicial overreach against political opponents in Turkey. He asserted that the judiciary is being weaponized, a tactic that further erodes public trust and damages the institution's integrity. This incident follows the recent detention of another CHP mayor, intensifying concerns within the EU regarding the state of democracy and the rule of law in Turkey.

From a Turkish perspective, such events are often viewed through a lens of political polarization. While international observers like Amor may highlight potential abuses of power and threats to democratic norms, domestic discourse frequently frames these actions within the context of national security and the fight against perceived internal threats. The government often justifies such detentions as necessary measures to maintain order and combat corruption or terrorism.

However, the involvement of the European Parliament signifies that these domestic political struggles are closely monitored internationally. Amor's strong condemnation suggests that Turkey's adherence to democratic principles and judicial independence remains a significant point of contention in its relationship with the EU. The framing of the operation as a "midnight raid" and a "slander campaign" by Amor aims to resonate with international audiences concerned about human rights and due process.

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On Friday, it was the turn of another CHP Mayor from Istanbul's Ataşehir district, Onursal Adıgüzel, to be detained. Once again, a fake midnight operation, staged as a slander campaign, further damaging the credibility of a judicial system used as a weapon against the opposition.