Upon a question raised by Jeanine Henni-Plasschaert, a Dutch deputy from the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) group, suggesting “that a more strongly worded statement could assist the democratization process in Turkey more effectively,” Füle stated that the European Commission supports the continuation of the investigation while respecting due process.
“The commission is following the ‘Ergenekon’ trial with the utmost attention. Beyond referring to it in detail in the progress report of 2009, the commission has stated on various occasions that the ‘Ergenekon’ investigation is a test for a well-functioning democracy in Turkey,” Füle said in a written statement on March 5.
As was stated by Commissioner Füle, the European Commission already clarified its position vis-a-vis the Ergenekon investigation in its progress report for Turkey last year. “This case is an opportunity for Turkey to strengthen confidence in the proper functioning of its democratic institutions and the rule of law” was the 2009 report’s overall approach to the Ergenekon investigation, expected to shed light on recent Turkish history that includes thousands of extra-judicial killings as well as coup plots. Based on evidence discovered in the investigation thus far, prosecutors accuse defendants of various offenses including membership in an armed terrorist organization and attempting to overthrow the government of the Turkish Republic by using violence and coercion.
Henni-Plasschaert also asked the commission if it had any information regarding the positions adopted by opposition parties. Füle said in a written statement: “The commission understands that the [Justice and Development Party] AKP government is clearly supportive of deepening the investigation and of an effective judicial process. The main opposition Republican People’s Party [CHP] -- while accusing the government of interfering with the judicial process -- also emphasizes the importance of a fair judicial process and is critical of the way the investigation was carried out. According to the commission’s understanding, the Nationalist Movement Party [MHP] takes a neutral stance, calling for a fair trial and the respect for the rule of law.”
