CHP, MHP argue against changes to article 301

Arguing that accepting changes "sought by foreigners" would be improper, main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) deputy leader Mustafa Ozyurek yesterday said the CHP is opposed to proposed changes to Article 301 of the Turkish Penal Code (TCK). "Similar laws exist in a number of European countries as well," he said. "Every state wants to protect its basic values and principles and doesn't allow people to insult its nation and institutions." He added that rather than changing the law, the government should train jurists on the issue to make clear when people can be accused of violating it. Ozyurek also expressed his party's objection to proposals to give the president the authority to begin the legal process under 301. In addition, Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) group deputy chairman Mehmet Sandir also criticized efforts to change the article, saying that the changes lack public support but are being pushed by the Armenian "genocide" lobby, the terrorist PKK, and ethnic separatists, as well as the European Union. "We won't support the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in tolerating people who insult the Republic of Turkey," said Sandir.