Istanbul | July 16, 2025 — Turkish prosecutors have launched a formal investigation into Özgür Özel, the leader of the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), following remarks he made about a public prosecutor.
According to Haber Global, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated the inquiry over statements Özel directed at Prosecutor Cahit Cihad Sarı. The CHP leader is accused of publicly insulting and threatening a state official.
The move comes amid growing political tensions in Turkey, where Özel has been one of the most outspoken critics of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s administration. In recent months, Özel has repeatedly condemned what he describes as political pressure on the judiciary and the erosion of judicial independence in the country.
Opposition figures have slammed the investigation as politically motivated, calling it a tactic to silence dissent and intimidate critics of the ruling government. Sources close to the CHP say the case is emblematic of broader efforts to criminalize political opposition and restrict freedom of expression in Turkey.
The case adds to a growing list of prosecutions targeting politicians, journalists, and civil society activists for criticizing state institutions — a trend that has drawn widespread concern from international human rights groups.
Observers say the probe against Özel could further inflame political tensions in the run-up to future elections and reinforce concerns about the state of democracy and the rule of law in Turkey. The CHP is expected to release an official response in the coming days.
