Pro-gov’t channel censors Kılıçdaroğlu, shows him as 'other candidate' on ballot paper example

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The pro-government TV channel A Haber on May 20 censored Main opposition Nation Alliance's presidential candidate and Republican People’s Party (CHP) leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu’s name and photo on their ballot paper example.

In the reporting “Be careful while voting” for the presidential run-off elections to be held on May 28, the photo of Kılıçdaroğlu was censored on the ballot paper that was projected onto the screen. While only the name and photo of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan appeared, Kılıçdaroğlu was shown as the "other candidate."

CHP’s Radio and Television Supreme Council’s (RTÜK) member İlhan Taşçı criticized the broadcast and said “Is this honesty when the Supreme Election Council’s (YSK) decision of ‘the opinions of the presidential candidates in accordance with the principles of equality and honesty during the election period must be reflected’ is still in effect!? Censoring the photograph of Mr. Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu is against the decision of the YSK, and RTÜK should definitely investigate.”

Kılıçdaroğlu has been barely found place on mainstream media, most of which are pro-government channels includign the state-run TRT, during the election campaign, making it more difficult for him to reach to the citizens.

In the May 14 presidential elections, Erdoğan officially received 49.52% of the votes, whereas Kılıçdaroğlu received 44.88%. This is the first time Turkey will experience a run-off election on May 28.

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