Directorate in AKP-run metropolitan municipality for former advisor to AKP's 'Yeliz'!

The appointment of Aziz Enes Yılmaz to the newly created EU and Foreign Relations Branch Directorate at the Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality has become a major topic of discussion in the municipal council. Yılmaz previously served as an advisor to former AKP Istanbul MP Ahmet Hamdi Çamlı, who is known by the nickname 'Yeliz'.

According to a report by Sözcü, CHP Council Member Mehmet Ümit Küçükkaya stated that this appointment was made by Mayor Tahir Büyükakın, remarking, "The mayor has chosen his companion."

In his speech at the council meeting, Küçükkaya drew attention to Yılmaz's past close relationship with Çamlı. He emphasized that beyond serving as Çamlı's advisor, they also worked together on the Board of Directors of the Istanbul Metropolitan Sports Club. Recalling Çamlı's past statements, Küçükkaya asked, "What do you say about the statements of your MP who characterized the Republic as a 'coup'?"

RESPONSE FROM THE DEPUTY COUNCIL SPEAKER

Deputy Council Speaker Mustafa Kocaman responded to the criticisms, stating that the statements of MPs are now outside the current political agenda. Kocaman said, "The assignment of MP advisors is not a situation unique to us. Several elections have passed since our MPs made those statements. No one can have a conflict with the Republic."

Kocaman emphasized that the nation follows such appointments and statements, and that it is the nation that will make the final judgment. He further expressed that such debates are unnecessary.