Journalist Ergündogan Sentenced

Yalcin Ergündogan, the editor-in-chief of the sesonline.net website wrote an article entitled "The disciples have rebelled against Haydar Bas", which was published in the "Birgün" newspaper on 26 April 2005.

Haydar Bas, chair of the Independent Turkey Party (BTP) then demanded compensation.

Compensation and now criminal trial

The Beyoglu 4th Civil Court of Peace has sentenced Yalcindogan to paying 1,500 YTL (around 850 Euros). The criminal trial which was opened following Bas's complaints, and in which three years imprisonment are demanded, will start at the Beyoglu 2nd Penal Court on 26 December.

Journalist Ergündogan has announced that he will appeal against the court decision and said: "Is it not a news item that disciples who spent a long time with Haydar Bas, the chair of a party, have left the sect and have published their reasons on an Internet website [entitled: 'The real face of Haydar Bas']?"

Ergündogan has also been taken to court by people said to be Bas's wives. They have also demanded compensation. (EÜ/AG)