Sumru Cortoglu, the chairperson of Turkey's Council of State, said that initiatives of some national and international circles to direct or influence judicial organs were not right.

140th anniversary of Council - 10 / 05 / 2008 12:20

The head of Turkey's top administrative court said on Saturday that initiatives of some national and international circles to direct or influence judicial organs were not right.

Sumru Cortoglu, the chairperson of Turkey's Council of State, said that foreigners should show to independent Turkish judiciary the same respect they showed to their own judicial organs, lawsuits and verdicts.

"This is a requirement of democracy, respect to law and independence of judiciary," Cortoglu said in a ceremony held in the Turkish capital of Ankara to mark the 140th anniversary of foundation of the Council of State.

Cortoglu said an independent and free judicial organ and securing a judicial organ that could work without any pressure or political intervention were preconditions of the principle of rule of law and separation of powers.

"Every organ should be aware of the limits of its duties and authorities and behave responsibly. This will not only enhance compromise and cooperation among state organs but also improve our democracy," the chairperson said.

Cortoglu said the independence of justice was equal to independence of state, and was the most effective guarantee for protecting the rights of individuals.

The chairperson said judicial decisions could also be criticized, however those criticisms should be made carefully and cautiously, and people should refrain from accusing judicial staff when criticizing.

Inaugurated on May 10th, 1869 by Ottoman Sultan Abdulaziz, the council was based on the principle of separation of executive, judicial and legislative powers.

However, it was duly abolished like all other organizations during the War of Independence.

It was re-established on October 23rd, 1925.

The Council of State is the highest administrative court, mainly with appellate jurisdiction.

The Council of State is not only a high administrative court but also an advisory body.