Indictment sought for Erdoğan's former legal advisor over 'insult' and 'defamation'

An indictment has been filed against Prof. Dr. İzzet Özgenç, a former legal advisor to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and a key figure in drafting the Turkish Penal Code. The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has accused Özgenç of "insult" and "defamation" related to his public statements concerning members of the Supreme Court.

The investigation was triggered by a social media post and an article published on Özgenç's website. Titled "Information note prepared for the President," the post led to a complaint alleging offenses including "targeting public officials involved in combating terrorism," "defamation," "insult," and "attempting to influence fair trial" and "attempting to influence a judicial görevli." However, the prosecutor's office determined that sufficient evidence only existed for the charges of "insult" and "defamation."

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Information note prepared for the President.

The indictment also reportedly includes Özgenç's legal assessments regarding Can Atalay, who is currently detained. Responding to the indictment, Özgenç expressed his dissatisfaction on social media, stating that his intentions were not sought during the investigation process and that he was not heard. This case highlights ongoing legal and political tensions within Turkey, particularly concerning public discourse and criticism directed at judicial figures.

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My intentions were not sought during the investigation process for this case.