Greek Parliament rejects motion to lift immunity of MP Özgür Ferhat
The Hellenic Parliament has rejected a request to lift the parliamentary immunity of Özgür Ferhat, following a vote in the General Assembly held in Athens on April 29, 2026.
The decision effectively halts legal proceedings linked to allegations of defamation and insult, marking a case that drew attention across Greece’s political spectrum.
Overwhelming Vote Against Lifting Immunity
Out of 297 MPs in parliament, 254 participated in the vote. The outcome was decisive:
- 226 votes against lifting immunity
- 28 votes in favor
- 43 MPs absent
The motion failed, as a large majority rejected the request to proceed with legal action against the MP.
Notably, opposition to the motion cut across party lines, including members of governing and opposition blocs such as New Democracy, SYRIZA, PASOK, Communist Party of Greece, and New Left.
Some MPs from PASOK reportedly left the chamber before the vote, abstaining from participation.
Political Sensitivity and Legal Background
The case was based on allegations of defamation and insult allegedly committed in March and April 2025 in Komotini, both in public spaces and online.
Parliament’s Ethics Committee and the plenary session assessed the case as being closely linked to Ferhat’s parliamentary activities, framing it as a matter with significant political dimensions rather than purely legal grounds.
Ferhat: “A Victory for Free Expression”
Speaking in parliament, Ferhat thanked members of the Ethics Committee and MPs from across the political spectrum for their stance.
He emphasized the importance of protecting freedom of expression and parliamentary immunity, stating that the case forms part of an ongoing legal process involving the same parties.
Ferhat also referenced previous rulings from the Rodopi civil courts, which he said had already ruled in his favor in related cases.
Concluding his remarks, he reaffirmed his commitment to constitutional principles, parliamentary democracy, and continued public service.
