UBP MPs Küçük and Taçoy Oppose Criminal Law and Cybercrime Bill

Küçük: “I Will Not Vote If Bill Comes in Its Current Form”

In an interview on Kanal T’s program Nazar ile Güne Dair, Hasan Küçük criticized the bill for containing vague language that could lead to differing interpretations, potentially causing societal divisions. He argued that the proposed changes would not fully address existing problems and could result in citizen grievances.

Küçük emphasized that his decision to leave the committee was based on objections to the content rather than workload. He noted that criminal law should not be used to resolve all societal issues and suggested separate legal mechanisms for cybercrime and social media regulation. Referring to Turkey’s anti-disinformation legislation, he called for similar comprehensive measures in Northern Cyprus.

Highlighting media and freedom of expression concerns, Küçük warned that ethical journalists could be adversely affected by the bill, urging the creation of a clearer and more inclusive legal framework.

Taçoy: “Articles 194, 195, and 197 Are Unacceptable; Will Vote Against if Included”

On Kanal T’s İnce Ayar program, Hasan Taçoy expressed that articles 194, 195, and 197 are particularly objectionable due to their political nature. He stated that if the bill reaches the General Assembly with these provisions, he will vote against it.

Taçoy stressed the importance of freedom of speech, arguing that all viewpoints must be freely expressed. He also responded to criticisms directed at him, noting that some parties had made personal attacks. Highlighting the role of journalism, Taçoy described the media as a “fourth power” alongside the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Both deputies’ statements underscore ongoing debate within the UBP over the scope and implications of the proposed amendments to criminal law and cybercrime regulations.