Scandalous remarks from AKP-linked figure regarding retirees! 'Insult me more harshly, I enjoy it'

While public reaction continues over the setting of the lowest pension at a starvation wage of 20,000 TL, figures linked to the AKP continue to target retired citizens.

The statements of Ertuğrul Akar, Chairman of the Great Anatolia Movement, known for his proximity to the AKP, have sparked a new controversy.

Akar argued that the economic problems in the pension system are rooted in the EYT regulation that came into effect in 2023. Pointing to the approximately 3 million citizens who retired under this scheme, Akar claimed that retirees who receive pensions for many years create a burden on the public budget.

"YOU RECEIVE A SALARY UNTIL THE AGE OF 80"

According to the report in Sözcü, Akar claimed that retirement cannot be directly linked to the premiums paid, and used the following expressions:

"Retirement is not about the mindset of 'I am getting back the money I paid to the state.' In that case, the state would tell you, 'Brother, how much did you pay? Take it and go.' A one-time payment would be more convenient for the state. But you retire at 43-45 and imagine you live until 80. The state pays you a salary for 40 years. Let's do the math; are the premiums you paid more, or is the salary you received more?"

Akar's words drew significant backlash, especially among citizens who retired under the EYT scheme.

"INSULT ME MORE HARSHLY, I ENJOY IT"

Following the criticism, Akar shared a new video on his social media account, making the following statement regarding the reactions directed at him:

"Everyone can insult me as much as they want. I have never filed a criminal complaint against anyone so far. Insult me more harshly, I enjoy it."

News Source: 12punto