Crack in AKP over health land: Implicit criticism of Erdoğan

With a decree signed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and published in the Official Gazette, the privatization of 71 Treasury-owned properties has come to the agenda. The fact that these properties include Elazığ's former military hospital, the Mental Health and Diseases Hospital, and the former state hospital has been met with backlash both in the city and nationwide.

The privatization decision received criticism not only from opposition parties but also from within the ruling wing. Leading these criticisms was AK Party Elazığ Deputy Ejder Açıkkapı.

"WE CANNOT WEAKEN THE HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE"

Regarding the regulation that caused the controversy, Ejder Açıkkapı took a clear stance, stating, "We will not allow any step that would weaken the health infrastructure." Emphasizing that Elazığ is not ownerless, Açıkkapı stated that they are listening to the reactions from citizens, saying, "We are acting with an understanding that takes legitimate criticisms into account and is solution-oriented."

Reminding that the February 6 earthquakes significantly affected the planning processes in the city, Açıkkapı stated that health investments are being reviewed again in this environment. He explained that the use of the former military hospital campus for different purposes was also due to these conditions, but expressed that they would not give up on the goal of bringing a new hospital to the city.

"IF THERE IS A MISTAKE, IT WILL BE CORRECTED"

Acknowledging that the privatization decision has caused unrest in the public, Açıkkapı said, "There is a mistake here, and this mistake will be corrected." Stating that negotiations with relevant institutions and ministries regarding the process are ongoing, Açıkkapı expressed that they have requested a re-evaluation of the future of the properties.

"I AM READY TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY"

Stating that they will in no way accept the negative impact on Elazığ's health infrastructure, Ejder Açıkkapı expressed his reaction with the following words:

"If a result emerges that is against Elazığ, this is not just a bureaucratic process; it is directly our responsibility. I will not run away from this responsibility. If necessary, I will take on the heaviest responsibility."

News Source: 12punto