Turkish Parliament Erupts Into Brawl Over Controversial Justice Minister Appointment

A violent confrontation broke out in Turkey’s parliament on Wednesday as lawmakers clashed over the appointment of **Akin Gürlek** as the new **Justice Minister**, triggering intense protests and physical scuffles on the chamber floor. ([AP News][1])

Opposition legislators, particularly from the Republican People’s Party (CHP), tried to block Gürlek from taking his oath of office following his nomination by **President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan**. They argue the appointment is politically biased due to Gürlek’s role as Istanbul’s chief public prosecutor, where he led investigations and prosecutions against senior opposition figures. ([ynetglobal][2])

As tensions escalated, members from both sides of the aisle engaged in pushing, shoving, and fistfights, with some lawmakers throwing punches during the chaotic session. Parliamentary proceedings were momentarily disrupted as order was restored. ([ABP Live][3])

Despite the opposition’s efforts, Gürlek ultimately took the oath amid support from ruling party deputies. The uproar reflects growing political friction in Turkey, as critics of the government warn that the appointment could further strain democratic norms and deepen divisions between the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and its opponents. ([New York Post][4])

The cabinet reshuffle also saw other ministerial changes, underscoring ongoing political debate in Ankara over the direction of Turkey’s justice system and broader governance. ([AP News][1])