Turkish Cypriot journalists protested on Monday against proposed changes to the ‘criminal code’ that they say directly threatens freedom of thought and expression, press freedom, and the public’s right to information.
The Turkish Cypriot Journalists’ Association (KTGB) and the Press Workers’ Union (Basın-Sen) demanded the withdrawal of the relevant bills tabled by the ruling coalition led by the National Unity Party (UBP). Representatives of the opposition Republican Turkish Party (CTP), independent representatives and the local representative of north Nicosia Mehmet Harmancı were also present at the protest.
Basın-Sen head Ali Kismir said the organisations are calling for the complete withdrawal of the texts. He argued that the ruling coalition seeks to silence opposition voices by copying legislation from Turkey.
“We do not want a police state,” said Kismir.
KTGB head Efdal Keser argued that an attempt was being made to restrict freedoms through vague wording. He warned that if there is no response to their demands, protests will escalate with an effort to inform the international community.
The joint statement of the two media unions noted that the proposed regulations grant judicial powers to the ‘police’, aiming at the creation of an authoritarian regime and the criminalisation of criticism and oversight of those in power.
Source: CNA