Turkey’s MHP backs extension of state of emergency

By Muhammet Emin Avundukluoglu

ANKARA

Turkish opposition Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) on Friday reiterated support for the extension of state of emergency in the country.

Speaking to reporters in the parliament, Erhan Usta, MHP deputy group chairman, said the situation in Turkey has not normalized since the defeated coup of July 15, 2016.

Turkey declared a state of emergency for the first time on July 20, 2016 following the defeated coup orchestrated by Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) and its U.S.-based leader Fetullah Gulen that left 250 people martyred and nearly 2,200 injured.

Ankara accuses FETO of being behind a long-running campaign to overthrow the state through the infiltration of Turkish institutions, particularly the military, police, and judiciary.

Usta said the fight against Fetullah Terrorist Organiztion (FETO) was still continuing. "For this reason, we, as MHP, will support the extension of state of emergency at least one more time," he said.

"This is the need of Turkey," said Usta.

Turkish parliament will debate on Wednesday the extension of state of emergency for seventh time.

The ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party and MHP will back the extension, while the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) and People's Democratic Party (HDP) will oppose it.

According to the constitution, a state of emergency can be declared for a maximum period of six months.

To enact the state of emergency, the government must foresee serious indications of widespread violence which may interfere with the democratic environment or basic constitutional rights and freedom of its citizens.