Erdogan demands new laws to reel in Turkish medical group

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged parliament to curb the influence of the Turkish Medical Association, which has been critical of the state’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Health workers and doctors wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) hold placards reading "You cannot manage, we are dying - We are running out" during a demostration against goverments health policy on September 15, 2020 in front of Istanbul University medical faculty. (Photo by Ozan KOSE / AFP) (Photo by OZAN KOSE/AFP via Getty Images)
Health workers and doctors wearing personal protective equipment hold placards reading "You cannot manage, we are dying - We are running out" during a demonstration against the goverment's health policy on Sept. 15, 2020, in front of Istanbul University medical school. - OZAN KOSE/AFP via Getty Images
diego_cupolo_color.jpg
Diego Cupolo
@diegocupolo

ISTANBUL — As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to upend life in Turkey and around the globe, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned a medical group that has been critical of the state’s response amid the health crisis.

Speaking to Justice and Development Party (AKP) lawmakers in Ankara Wednesday, Erdogan urged Turkey’s parliament to introduce legislation that would diminish the influence of the Turkish Medical Association (TTB) and other professional associations, which he said were acting against the nation’s constitution in ways that had “reached an unbearable level.”

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 for annual access.

Videos

See more