Veli Ağbaba draws backlash for printing his own photo on Ramadan aid packages

CHP Deputy Chairman and Malatya MP Veli Ağbaba has come to the fore with his aid activities carried out during the month of Ramadan.

Ağbaba, who had his own photograph printed on the aid packages, ignited a major debate on social media. The sharing of photos taken during the distribution of the aid packages on social media accounts drew backlash from citizens.

THE CONTENT OF THE AID AND THE PHOTO CONTROVERSY

Ağbaba's decision to add his own photo to the Ramadan aid packages received significant criticism from the public. Social media users described this move as "advertising the aid" and reacted accordingly. Comments included remarks such as "How are you any different?", "It's shameful," and "If you are going to provide aid, do it properly; if not, don't do it at all. Why would there be a picture on a Ramadan package?"

Previously, promotional photos on aid packages distributed by the ruling party had similarly drawn backlash from citizens. However, this time, a similar situation was brought to the agenda by a deputy from the main opposition party. Veli Ağbaba's photo on the aid package became the focus of criticism interpreted as "What is the difference?"

Here are the images that drew the backlash: 

THOSE WHO SAY 'THE PURPOSE OF AID IS BEING TAINTED'

Criticism directed at Ağbaba for sharing his aid efforts spread rapidly on social media. Some citizens argued that the essence and purpose of aid are being tainted by such practices. Many users, stating that the focus should be on the purpose of the aid rather than the person providing it, said, "It is not right to use a Ramadan package for advertising rather than for the purpose of helping one another."