The general was summoned as part of an investigation into an alleged plot against certain religious orders and communities in the eastern city of Erzincan. Public prosecutor Osman Şanal, who was stripped of his authority by the HSYK on Wednesday after ordering the arrest of another prosecutor, had summoned 3rd Army Commander Gen. Saldıray Berk to testify two times as part of the ongoing probe in Erzincan. However, an announcement made yesterday by Erzurum Chief Public Prosecutor Sinan Kuş noted that Berk had until Feb. 26 to testify. He told journalists that if Berk fails to so, “legal procedures” applicable in such a case will commence.
Meanwhile, news reports yesterday said Berk has been in Ankara for the past two days, where he had a meeting with General Staff legal counsel Hıfzı Çubuklu. Reports said he also informed Chief of General Staff Gen. İlker Başbuğ and Land Forces Commander Gen. Işık Koşaner about the recent developments.
Meanwhile, there was some speculation about whether Berk would be wearing his military uniform if and when he comes to testify. Gen. Berk is one of the highest-ranking officers of the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK). Until today, not a single officer on active duty has worn a uniform during an investigation conducted by civilian prosecutors. If Berk does comply with the Erzurum prosecutor, wearing his uniform will be perceived as symbolic, observers say. If he wears a uniform, they argue, he will be sending the message that the ongoing probe is targeting the TSK, and not only himself.
