Turkish court extends detention of journalist over alleged insult to President Erdoğan

A court in Istanbul has extended the detention of journalist and television presenter Fatih Altaylı over allegations of insulting and threatening President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Speaking at the first hearing, held at Silivri Prison in Istanbul, Altaylı expressed surprise and dismay at the charges, Caliber.Az reports per Turkish media.

“I am deeply surprised and saddened that I am being tried today for allegedly threatening the president. Let me stress that in over 40 years of professional work, and throughout my life, I have never threatened anyone,” he said.

The court rejected Altaylı’s request for release and adjourned the case until November 26.

The charges relate to comments Altaylı made on his social media account on June 20. According to the indictment, he allegedly threatened the president, suggesting that an attempt would be made on his life.

The document further states that “the act was clear beyond any doubt, and it was evident that its content would reach a wide audience.”

Insulting the president is a criminal offence in Türkiye, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to five years.

Altaylı was detained in June following comments made during a YouTube live broadcast.

By Aghakazim Guliyev