US Weighs in On AKP's Efforts to Close Pro-Kurdish HDP

LOCAL NEWS

• US State Dept says it is closely following events in Turkey including efforts to dissolve the HDP, unduly subverting the will of Turkish voters and undermining democracy and also the revocation of MP Gergerlioglu's parliamentary seat.
  • US calls on Turkey to defend freedom of expression in line with the constitution & international obligations
• Yesterday, Turkey's top prosecutor filed a lawsuit for the closure of the pro-Kurdish HDP – accusing members of aiming to disrupt & destroy state unity with its actions and statements. Also notes links to terrorist organisation PKK.
  • Indictment calls for bans on 600 HDP members, prohibiting them from political activities for 5 years.
  • The matter moves to the constitutional court, but local analyst says that instead of full dissolution, the party may rather completely cut off state aid to the HDP
• Opposition CHP and Future Party leaders expressed remorse over the ANK's move to shut down the HDP – saying the move ruins social peace
• Pro-Govt columnist says Biden may call Erdogan within two weeks, noting Erdogan has not been disturbed by the lack of contact despite widespread claims