Statement from Istanbul University Rector on İmamoğlu: 'The decision is final'

Istanbul University Rector Prof. Dr. Osman Bülent Zülfikar made statements regarding the revocation of the diploma of CHP presidential candidate and detained Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Stating that the decision was made by the Istanbul University Board of Directors, Zülfikar said, “We have revoked the diploma; our decision is final.”

AUTHORITY OF THE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Zülfikar stated that the decision was taken by the Istanbul University Board of Directors and that the Higher Education Council (YÖK) law grants this authority to the university. “The Istanbul University Board of Directors is authorized in this matter. The YÖK law permits this,” said Zülfikar, adding that while the decision is final, the legal dimension is ongoing. Zülfikar stated that the request for a stay of execution was rejected and that the matter is now at the stage where the judge will decide on the trial.

DIPLOMA REVOCATION DECIDED UNANIMOUSLY

Zülfikar noted that the decision to revoke the diploma was taken unanimously at a meeting attended by 18 people. “The decision to revoke the diploma was taken unanimously with the votes of all 18 people,” he said, emphasizing that the decision was in accordance with the law and within the university's authority. He also stated that members who could not attend the meeting had valid excuses and that the number of participants at the meeting had dropped to 18 due to the resignation of a faculty dean.

LEGAL PROCESS CONTINUES

Zülfikar said that the legal process regarding the revocation of İmamoğlu's diploma is ongoing and that a judicial decision is awaited. “The legal and judicial dimension of the matter is already continuing. The second phase has also passed. The opposing party wanted to obtain a stay of execution, but it was rejected. Now the matter is at the stage where the judge will decide on the trial,” he said. Zülfikar stated that the process is expected to conclude within this year.

RESULTS OF PRE-1993 LATERAL TRANSFERS TO BE ANNOUNCED

Zülfikar also announced that the results of the investigation into lateral transfers prior to 1993 would be announced soon. “There are irregularities in this 4-year period of 1988-1989-1990-1991. There are around 230 lateral transfers in total for these 4 years,” said Zülfikar, adding that Istanbul University would examine all lateral transfers during this period and publish the results. Zülfikar stated that the investigation is not only about Ekrem İmamoğlu, but that a study covering the entire period is being conducted.