Turkey: HDP deputy could lose seat due to absenteeism

By Coskun Ergul

ANKARA (AA) – A Turkish deputy from the opposition People’s Democratic Party (HDP) could lose his parliamentary seat over absenteeism.

In a meeting chaired by ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party Istanbul Deputy Mustafa Sentop, a parliamentary joint commission decided by a majority of votes to revoke the seat of Faysal Sariyildiz due to missing too many sessions of parliament.

The commission will refer the case of Sariyildiz, from the eastern province of Sirnak, to the general assembly for a final decision.

Another HDP deputy, Leyla Zama, also faces possible expulsion due to her failing to properly take her oath of office, as well as rampant absenteeism, after missing over 200 legislative sessions.