Media authority fines Habertürk TV over opposition MP's remarks during program

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The Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) has imposed a broadcast suspension and a monetary fine on Habertürk TV because of an opposition deputy's remarks against the government during a program.

Criticizing the sale of a military factory to Qatar, Republican People's Party (CHP) deputy Ali Mahir Başarır had said "For the first time in the history of the republic, the army of the state was sold to Qatar."

CLICK - Main opposition MP under investigation for criticizing military factory's sale to Qatar

Examining the program, the RTÜK concluded today (December 2) that the MP insulted the Turkish Armed Forces and the Republic of Turkey and Habertürk TV violated Article 8/1-a of the media law, which prohibits broadcasting against the existence and independence of the republic and the integrity of the state.

The Council suspended the discussion program for five episodes and imposed a monetary penalty on Habertürk.

Previously, prosecutors in Ankara opened an investigation against the MP for "publicly degrading the state and the army." (HA/VK)