PM defends election watchdog after CHP's harsh accusations

Members of the Supreme Board of Elections (YSK) are "the most prestigious judges" and must be respected, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım has said, slamming main opposition Republican People Party (CHP) leader Kemal Kılıçdaoğlu for slamming the YSK for being under the influence of the government. 

"I strongly condemn [his statements]," Yıldırım said on May 10, speaking before his departure to London for a meeting on Somalia.

"They are the most prestigious legal professionals and they are doing their job in the best way. If we continue to harm them, if we continue to harm judicial institutions, then the real problems will begin," he added. 

Criticizing Kılıçdaroğlu for "not respecting the popular will" by opposing the recent disputed referendum results, Yıldırım said the "legitimacy of the referendum cannot be questioned."

"The only thing that could make an election dubious is an incorrect reflection of the votes in the ballot boxes. Nobody is saying that, they are just arguing about the stamps," he said, adding that "the most important stamp is whether it is 'No' or 'Yes.' The other seals are not important."

CHP head Kılıçdaroğlu had blasted judicial decisions made by state institutions including the election watchdog, arguing that the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) has an influence over the judiciary. 
"They are taking into account only the decisions of one man," he said on May 9, referring to the president.

Council of State president defends YSK

The president of Turkey's Council of State, Zerrin Güngör, also rejected Kılıçdaroğlu's criticism, specifically objecting to his use of the term "pro-government judges."

"Unfortunately, subjective, undue and...