Is he being prepared to replace Ali Yerlikaya? AKP corridors are buzzing

The operation updates, photographs, and detention figures shared every morning from the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office's social media account are moving to the top of the agenda. 

CORRIDOR SPECULATION IN THE AKP REGARDING GÜRLEK

Some figures within the AKP believe that the activities during this process are far beyond being a "simple communication activity." Party sources state that Gürlek is one of the names mentioned for the Interior Ministry. In recent days, comments that Gürlek is "eyeing the ministerial seat" have increased.

ERDOĞAN’S HESITATION

According to party corridors, it is stated that President Erdoğan is reflecting on what kind of impact it would create if names like Gürlek were to "take part in important positions such as a ministry." Some AKP executives assess the situation by saying, "Gürlek has recently come to the fore not only with investigations but also with the strong communication he has established with the public. However, timing is important for Erdoğan."

Another notable comment is that the targeting of Ali Yerlikaya's advisor, Ergün Yolcu, in media outlets close to the AKP could be a part of this process. Some sources do not see the targeting of Yolcu, who manages Yerlikaya's communication processes, with accusations of being a "February 28th supporter" as a coincidence. In this context, it is being discussed that the allegations that Gürlek has recently been "sharing case information with journalists in the opposition media through his deputy" are being evaluated as a transition to a Yerlikaya-style communication strategy.

GÜRLEK'S CONTACTS WITH THE MEDIA

According to the report by Halk TV, another important development in the AKP corridors is the allegations that Gürlek is in close communication with journalists close to the government. It is known that judicial reporters, in particular, can establish direct communication with Gürlek. A party official comments, "He is conducting a process that draws attention in terms of public relations. He plans both the operation news and the messages conveyed to the public quite carefully."

SCENARIOS FOR THE INTERIOR MINISTRY

In government corridors, Gürlek's name has begun to be mentioned for the Interior Ministry in a possible cabinet revision. However, this possibility faces two obstacles. First, there is President Erdoğan's long-standing effort to keep Yerlikaya as a "loyal but unpopular" profile. The second obstacle is that Gürlek's effectiveness in the judiciary is seen as more functional for the government.

According to information received from AKP sources, Erdoğan attaches great importance to Gürlek not politically, but in terms of the continuity of the system. However, claims that Gürlek is trying to transform this interest to gain political leverage are also being voiced in the corridors.