Opposition lawmakers from the Republican People’s Party (CHP) attempted to block the swearing-in of Akın Gürlek, the newly appointed Justice Minister.
Gürlek, a former Istanbul Chief Prosecutor, is a highly controversial figure. The opposition accuses him of being a “judicial hitman” for President Erdoğan, citing his role in presiding over high-profile trials against opposition members and the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu.
As Gürlek approached the podium to take his oath, CHP legislators rushed forward to block him. Lawmakers from the ruling AK Party moved in to shield him, leading to a melee.
Reports indicate that punches were thrown, shoes were removed to be used as weapons, and CHP lawmaker Mahmut Tanal reportedly suffered a broken nose.
The speaker suspended the session for 15 minutes. Once order was restored, Gürlek was eventually sworn in while surrounded by a human shield of ruling party members
By Anthony Solly
