09.05.2026 12:03
While CHP leader Özgür Özel's remarks regarding journalist Sinan Burhan sparked controversy, the Turkish Press Federation issued a statement, describing the comments as "unfortunate and unacceptable."
In a live broadcast, CHP Chairman Özgür Özel, answering questions, said about journalist Sinan Burhan: "On one side, Sinan Burhan, what should I call him... To a man who said ten days in advance that Chairman Ekrem would be arrested, what should I say? Does one ask a microbe why it causes disease?" These remarks drew a reaction from the Turkish Press Federation.
In a statement, they said: "We find the remarks used by Republican People's Party Chairman Mr. Özgür Özel about Sinan Burhan on a television program, such as 'a microbe will do its microbic thing,' extremely unfortunate and unacceptable.
"MUST BE OPEN TO CRITICISM"
In democratic societies, journalists can of course be criticized. Media members must also be open to criticism for the assessments they make in public. However, using insulting language against opinions and assessments, targeting individuals, and attempting to discredit them with degrading expressions is incompatible with press freedom, freedom of expression, and the understanding of democratic politics.
"UNACCEPTABLE"
Pressure, insults, and divisive rhetoric against journalists are unacceptable regardless of which group they come from. The duty of the political institution is not to increase social tension but to strengthen the culture of criticism with democratic maturity.
"REGARDING THE TARGETING OF JOURNALISTS..."
It is a serious contradiction for a political understanding that constantly emphasizes press freedom and democracy to use such expressions toward a journalist. We once again state that we oppose any approach aimed at silencing the press, threatening media organizations, or targeting journalists with differing views.
"WE INVITE THEM TO USE A SENSIBLE LANGUAGE"
As the Turkish Press Federation; we condemn belittling, exclusionary, and targeting rhetoric against media members and invite all politicians to use a more responsible and sensible language."