Nasuh Mahruki Faces Up to 3 Years in Prison – Latest Turkey News
Former AKUT President Nasuh Mahruki was once again in court, facing charges of “publicly disseminating misleading information to the public.” The hearing took place at the Istanbul 15th Criminal Court of First Instance, where Mahruki and his lawyer appeared, with many spectators in attendance including CHP Deputy Chairman Aylin Nazlıaka.
During the hearing, the public prosecutor urged for Mahruki to be sentenced to 1 to 3 years in prison for his actions. However, Mahruki defended himself by stating that he was merely expressing his views on social media, based on his expertise as a graduate of the National Security Academy. He argued that events in Syria had only served to confirm his beliefs.
Mahruki also requested for expert witness Ümit Özdağ to testify at the hearing, along with other experts who have written about the matter in question. His lawyer, Şehmus Tekik, asked for more time to prepare their defense against the prosecutor’s arguments.
The judge granted the request for more time and postponed the hearing to February 21. The case revolves around allegations that Mahruki intended to create fear and panic among the public through his social media posts.
According to the indictment from the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, Mahruki’s actions were deemed as likely to disrupt public peace due to the content and visibility of his posts. In addition to the current charge, Mahruki is also under investigation for publicly insulting the Government of the Republic of Turkey and the judicial organs of the state. The case continues to unfold as both sides present their arguments in court.
