The amending bill concerns criminal procedure and “may restrict scrutiny in cases of strong public interest,” according to Akıncı.
The discussion surrounding the new amending 'law' on criminal procedure in the north continues, with former Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akıncı saying that the regulation raises legitimate concerns and calling for careful reconsideration, with emphasis on its impact on press freedom and public accountability.
In a post on social media, Mr Akıncı refers to the climate that has formed following the approval of the 'law' by the 'parliament' and notes that reactions are not limited to journalistic circles, but extend to institutional and social bodies as well.
It is recalled that previously, Turkish Cypriot trade unions and journalists reacted, arguing that the provisions on the presumption of innocence and the coverage of court cases conflict with the case law of the European Court of Human Rights, while the 'Turkish Cypriot media ethics council' called on Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman to return the regulation for reconsideration.
The council considers that, despite references to the presumption of innocence, the implementation of the regulation could restrict scrutiny in cases of strong public interest, particularly when individuals with a 'public' role are involved.
Source: CNA