Erdoğan Ally Bahçeli Criticizes Release of Journalists Altan, Ilıcak

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Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) Chair Devlet Bahçeli has released a written statement, criticizing the release of journalists Ahmet Altan and Nazlı Ilıcak from prison.

He asserted that the journalists are related to the Fethullahist Terrorist Organization (FETÖ), which is held responsible for the coup attempt on July 15, 2016.

"Turkey absolutely has to overcome the FETÖ calamity. It is obvious that we will support any step that is or will be taken for this. However, the verdicts announced to the public in some FETÖ cases hurt the conscience of the nation.

"The trial process that took place at İstanbul 26th Heavy Penal Court on the media structure of the FETÖ/PDY armed terrorist group became the focal point of discussion as of yesterday.

"Some of the people whose bonds and connections to the FETÖ are clear and known, who contributed to the FETÖ through their words, articles and actions before July 15, have been acquitted and some have been released on probation. The Nationalist Movement Party, of course, respects the judicial decisions. But it assumes that the judicial decisions must not contradict the conscience of the nation.

"The fight against the FETÖ must continue until the last FETÖ member is held accountable, without letting it slow down and hinder.

"On the other hand, progress not being made against the political extensions of the FETÖ unavoidably raises question marks in minds."

Altan and Ilıcak were released from prison after staying behind bars for 1,138 days and 1,197 days respectively.

(PT/VK)