Hulusi Akar denies allegations by Mengü and Özdağ: 'We will hold them accountable within the framework of the law'
Hulusi Akar has reacted sharply to claims by journalist Nevşin Mengü and Zafer Party Chairman Ümit Özdağ, who alleged that Akar was stirring up trouble regarding young lieutenants in an attempt to become Minister of National Defense again. Akar described the allegations as completely baseless and untrue, announcing that he would initiate legal proceedings.
İHA
Chairman of the TBMM National Defense Commission and AKP Kayseri Deputy Hulusi Akar has reacted sharply to allegations made against him by journalist Nevşin Mengü and Zafer Party Chairman Ümit Özdağ. Stating that the allegations in question are completely baseless, Akar announced that he would file a criminal complaint against both individuals.
In his statement, Akar said, “No one can commit character assassination for the sake of personal PR and ratings. It is unacceptable for a so-called journalist to serve up imaginary information produced at a desk that has nothing to do with reality. We condemn those who act against press ethics and those who lack intellectual integrity.” Akar emphasized that such groundless allegations would have a legal response and stated, “We have not allowed, and will not allow, those who have made irresponsibility their profession to occupy the public agenda. We will hold those who throw stones into the well, as well as those who jump in after the stone, accountable within the framework of the law.”
What Were the Allegations?
Nevşin Mengü had claimed that Hulusi Akar met with MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli and made statements suggesting that the young lieutenants were affiliated with the Zafer Party. Mengü also alleged that after an incident on August 30, Akar provoked Bahçeli against the young lieutenants by using the Zafer Party.
Zafer Party Chairman Ümit Özdağ also supported these claims, suggesting that Akar was stirring up trouble over the young lieutenants in order to become the Minister of National Defense again. Özdağ stated that they would follow the matter closely.
Legal Steps Will Be Taken
Reiterating that the allegations are completely baseless, Akar stated that legal proceedings would be initiated against Nevşin Mengü and Ümit Özdağ. Reminding members of the press of their responsibilities, Akar said that misleading the public and publishing baseless information is unacceptable.
These statements indicate that the legal process initiated by Akar to protect his public reputation following the allegations will become a part of the political agenda.