Turkish Parliament Moves Forward with Justice Academy Law and Cybersecurity Bill
TURKEY-POLITICS-ENERGY-ENVIRONMENT
This week in Turkish politics, the Turkish Parliament concluded a relatively quiet period with the passing of the Justice Academy Law. The General Assembly was also expected to discuss the proposed Cybersecurity Law, which has raised significant concerns.
Cybersecurity Law Sparks Controversy
The proposed Cybersecurity Law gives authorities broad powers to conduct searches, copy, and seize materials from homes and workplaces without delay, provided a prosecutor or board chair orders it due to national security concerns, public order, or the prevention of cyberattacks.
However, opposition parties and media organizations have voiced strong criticism, likening the proposal to a censorship law. Under the new provisions, individuals who falsely create the perception of a data breach could face prison sentences ranging from two to five years, even if no actual data breach occurred.
AKP's Legislative Plans and Climate Change Bill
The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) also aimed to present a Climate Change Bill to parliament this week. The bill is a part of ongoing efforts to address environmental concerns in the country.
Political Leaders Address Key Issues
Political party leaders were scheduled to speak at their group meetings on February 18 and 19, addressing critical issues such as the government-appointed trustee in Van province, statements from TÜSİAD, internal conflicts within the Republican People’s Party (CHP), and other important political developments.
AKP's Congress Preparations
In parallel, the AKP continued preparations for its significant congress on February 23. The focus of discussions has been on changes to the party’s Central Decision and Executive Board (MKYK) and the formation of a new leadership structure within the party.
CHP Primary Election Process Begins
For the Republican People’s Party (CHP), the official timeline for their primary election to determine the presidential candidate started this week. Candidates had until February 14 to submit their applications, with technical preparations underway at the party's branches.
İmralı Delegation Engages with Kurdish Leaders
The İmralı delegation set off for a busy week, meeting with Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) leaders Nechirvan Barzani and Masoud Barzani in Erbil on February 16. On February 18, the delegation planned to travel to Sulaymaniyah to meet Bafel Talabani and other leaders of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). Upon returning from Northern Iraq, they aimed to request a meeting with Turkey's Justice Ministry to discuss Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) leader Abdullah Öcalan on İmralı Island.
