Turkish voters approved in a referendum in September constitutional reforms proposed by the ruling AK Party to revamp Turkey’s top courts, a move critics say will strip the judiciary of its role of overseeing the executive.

Among the most contentious articles were the overhaul of the Supreme Board of Judges and Prosecutors, or HSYK, and the Constitutional Court. Both have been at odds with the AK Party.

“Our opinion on the changes made to the constitution was never even asked,” HSYK head Kadir Ozbek told a news conference.

Ozbek, a frequent government critic, was due to retire in December.

Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan has said the changes will strengthen democracy and bring Turkey closer to European norms.

The result of the referendum was seen as a major boost for Erdogan, who will seek a third consecutive term in power in general elections in June next year.

Critics of the senior judiciary say it had become the preserve of an elite clique that is unrepresentative of Turkish society.