Turkish gov't official backs bill to allow civilian courts to try army staff

"In my opinion it does not violate the constitution. I see nothing unconstitutional with it," Cicek said in the interview.

Turkish Parliament last week passed a controversial bill that enables civilian courts to prosecute army personnel, after an all-night session.  Â

The legislation, which needs the president's approval, has sparked tension among the ruling Justice and Development Party, or AKP, and opposition figures, including Republican People’s Party, or CHP, leader Deniz Baykal, who accused the governing party of passing the law hastily in a "midnight coup," and not informing them of the move in advance.Â

CHP officials have said they would bring the issue to the Constitutional Court if it is approved by Turkish President Abdullah Gul.Â

"Laws and procedures imply very clearly how things work. Parliament has passed a legislation and it has been submitted to the related authorities," Cicek told hurriyet.com.tr.

Justice Minister Sadullah Ergin later on Friday held a meeting with Gul regarding the controversial legislation. No statement was released after the meeting held at the presidential palace in the capital Ankara.Â