Tension in Parliament: İYİ Party Member Strikes at the Speaker’s Podium – Vezir Agency

Dispute Between Deputy Speaker and Clerk Over Talat Pasha

The Turkish Grand National Assembly (TGNA) witnessed a heated exchange when Deputy Speaker Tekin Bingöl confronted Yasin Öztürk, a Clerk Member representing the İYİ Party. The disagreement centered around the controversial Talat Pasha monument located in Altındağ, Ankara, which had sparked national debates.

During a session discussing amendments to various laws, including Law No. 6102 and decree laws, the atmosphere grew tense. Democratic Party (DEM) Deputy from Mardin, George Aslan criticized the erection of the Talat Pasha monument in the capital, questioning its appropriateness and historical implications. This critique prompted a swift reaction from İYİ Party's Manisa Deputy, Şenol Sunat.

The situation escalated when Yasin Öztürk, attempting to defend the monument, approached the parliamentary podium with visible agitation. In a moment of frustration, he hit the parliamentary desk and directed his anger toward Deputy Speaker Tekin Bingöl. Following this outburst, Öztürk abruptly left the chamber, prompting the session to be temporarily adjourned.

Parliament's Response and Proceedings

Deputy Speaker Tekin Bingöl, citing breaches of parliamentary decorum, announced that Öztürk’s conduct was unacceptable. The Internal Regulations were invoked, and a formal reprimand was issued against Öztürk for his disruptive behavior, which included making offensive remarks and gestures.

During the recess, a tense exchange ensued between members of the DEM and İYİ Parties. After approximately an hour, AK Party's Kütahya Deputy, Adil Biçer, took over the parliamentary podium, allowing the session to continue.

Öztürk, defending his actions, clarified that he did not punch the desk but merely knocked it to issue a warning. Nevertheless, the assembly voted to uphold the reprimand, with some deputies expressing disagreement. The İYİ Party Group Deputy Leaders, Turhan Çömez and Buğra Kavuncu, publicly stated their disapproval of the sanction, whereas Democratic Party's Sezai Temelli and CHP's Murat Emir supported the decision.

This incident underscores the deep political divisions and sensitivities surrounding historical figures and monuments in Turkey, reflecting ongoing debates about national memory and identity.