Minister warns judges, prosecutors

ANKARA

Judges and prosecutors in special-authority courts should respect individual rights and avoid arrest orders whenever possible, Justice Minister Sadullah Ergin has said, adding that their excesses had led to “negative perceptions” of Turkey’s rights record.

“Prosecutors must show utmost caution to prevent violations of human rights, to collect evidence promptly and in accordance with the rules, not to victimize individuals and institutions and, above all else, to ensure that public confidence in the judiciary is preserved,” Ergin said yesterday at the opening of a seminar organized for members of Turkey’s judiciary on the practices and rulings of the European Court of Human Rights amid mounting international criticism over breaches of free speech and the imprisonment of journalists. The minister said Turkey still needed special-authority courts because of its struggle against terrorist groups and organized crime. “Instead of objecting to the existence of the specialized courts, it would be better to review their procedures and powers,” Ergin said