Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor Gökhan Karaköse Elected to Supreme Court of Appeals
Ankara, June 11, 2026 – Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor Gökhan Karaköse has been elected as a member of the Supreme Court of Appeals (Yargıtay), a significant judicial appointment announced in the Official Gazette. The decision, published by the Presidency of the Council of Judges and Prosecutors, confirms Karaköse’s new role within Turkey’s highest judicial body.
The election follows a notification from the First Presidency of the Supreme Court of Appeals, dated May 22, 2026, which indicated four vacant positions for Supreme Court members. In accordance with Articles 29 and temporary 15 of Law No. 2797 on the Supreme Court of Appeals, the General Assembly convened to discuss and select candidates for these vacant memberships.
The unanimous decision resulted in the appointment of Gökhan Karaköse, who previously served as the Chief Public Prosecutor of Ankara. This move is part of the regular judicial appointments and rotations within the Turkish legal system.
Background on the Appointment Process
The process for selecting members of the Supreme Court of Appeals is meticulously defined by Turkish law. Vacancies are announced, and candidates are then put forward for consideration by the General Assembly of the Council of Judges and Prosecutors. This body plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and functionality of the Turkish judiciary.
Gökhan Karaköse’s extensive experience as the Chief Public Prosecutor of Ankara is expected to bring valuable expertise to the Supreme Court. His tenure in Ankara involved overseeing numerous high-profile cases and managing the public prosecution office in the nation’s capital.
Implications of the Appointment
This appointment is a notable development within the Turkish judiciary. Members of the Supreme Court of Appeals are responsible for reviewing decisions made by lower courts, ensuring that legal precedents are consistently applied, and upholding the rule of law across the country. Karaköse’s new role will place him at the forefront of these critical judicial functions.
The Supreme Court of Appeals plays a pivotal role in the Turkish legal system, acting as the final court of appeal for civil and criminal cases. Its decisions set precedents that guide all other courts in the country, making the selection of its members a matter of considerable importance.
Further details regarding Karaköse’s official swearing-in and the commencement of his duties as a Supreme Court member are anticipated to be announced in due course.
