The Reports Were Sent to the Justice Ministry

Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has prepared a report requesting the lifting of parliamentary immunity for Özgür Özel, leader of the New Party, and Malatya deputy Veli Ağbaba over allegations of 'chain bribery. The report claims Özel used his influence to secure Muhittin Böcek's nomination as Antalya Metropolitan Municipality mayoral candidate in the March 31, 2024 local elections, receiving benefits from Böcek and his son Mustafa Gökhan Böcek, directly or through Ağbaba. Özel is also accused of obtaining financial benefits from suspended Uşak Mayor Özkan Yalım for use at the CHP's 38th Ordinary Congress on November 4-5, 2023. Ağbaba allegedly received various sums from Böcek and his son for the mayoral candidacy and pressured Çankaya Municipality to award a solid waste collection tender to a company of his choice via negotiation, contrary to specifications.

The reports were sent to the Justice Ministry. The immunity removal process involves a five-member preparatory commission selected by lot from the Joint Constitutional and Justice Committee, which reviews the file within a month. If it recommends lifting immunity, the file goes to the Joint Committee, which decides within a month to either postpone prosecution or lift immunity.

Postponement becomes final if no objection is raised within 10 days in the General Assembly; otherwise, it is debated. Lifting immunity sends the report directly to the General Assembly, where one deputy speaks for and one against, and the accused can defend themselves or delegate. Voting is open, requiring at least 200 deputies present and 151 votes in favor.

The decision is then transmitted to the relevant prosecutor's office via the Presidency and Justice Ministry. The deputy retains their seat and salary unless convicted, but loses it if a final court ruling is read in the General Assembly. Within seven days of the decision, the deputy or another can appeal to the Constitutional Court, which rules within 15 days.