The Supreme Board of Judges and Prosecutors in Türkiye has published the detailed reasoning behind its decision to remove Van prosecutor Ferhat Sarikaya from his post and suspend him pending the outcome of any appeal.
The board found that Sarikaya exceeded his legal authority, undermining trust between the judiciary and other constitutional institutions. Specifically, he presented witness allegations against Land Forces Commander Gen. Yasar Buyukanit and other senior military officers in his indictment as established facts rather than unproven claims.
The board also cited a letter Sarikaya sent to Gendarmery General Command on 24 January 2006, saying its language could be read as improperly critical of the recipient. Additionally, the board concluded he had involved himself in political matters by establishing contact with a Parliamentary Investigation Committee.
Sarikaya prepared the widely discussed Semdinli indictment, which named Buyukanit and other top generals. Justice Ministry inspectors, assigned with the approval of Minister Cemil Cicek, had earlier recommended disciplinary action over the indictment's contents and the letter to the gendarmerie.
Sarikaya retains the right to request a review of the decision. If his objection is ultimately rejected, his removal from duties will be finalized.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in May 2006, in its own words.