Immunity files of seven Turkish MPs, including Özgür Özel, sent to Parliament

The Turkish Parliament has received immunity files for seven members of parliament (MPs), including main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Özgür Özel. The files, totaling nine new cases, were submitted to the Speaker's Office. This action follows a legal process that allows the parliament to lift or maintain parliamentary immunity for specific MPs, typically related to ongoing investigations or prosecutions. The move is seen as part of the broader political dynamics in Turkey, where immunity cases have historically been used as a tool in political disputes. The affected MPs are from various parties, and the cases could lead to their prosecution if immunity is lifted. The development comes amid heightened political tensions ahead of local elections.

Global Impact

Politically, this move could deepen polarization in Turkey and strain relations with the European Union, which has criticized such actions as undermining democratic norms. Economically, the uncertainty may deter foreign direct investment and increase volatility in Turkish financial markets.