An Istanbul court on Thursday charged the former head of the Turkish armed forces with leading a terrorist group and masterminding coup plots to overthrow the Islamic-inspired government, the New York Times reports. The prosecuting authorities demand a life sentence for General Basbug.
Ilker Basbug, a retired general, is among dozens who face charges as part of an inquiry into what is said to be a plot by secular conspirators to stir chaos and prepare the ground for a coup. Critics of the government say the claims against many suspects, including General Basbug, are politically motivated and meant in part to continue weakening the once-powerful military. A criminal court needs to approve the indictment before the case can move forward.
