Ekrem İmamoğlu joins criticism of İbrahim Kaboğlu’s remarks on the first four articles of the Constitution

The newly elected president of the Istanbul Bar Association, İbrahim Kaboğlu, used controversial expressions in his speech following the election yesterday. In his statement, he referred to the first four articles of the Constitution, saying, "The unchangeable articles can be touched upon in a positive sense." In his full speech, Kaboğlu said, "Just as it was done in 1995, just as it was done in 2001, the racist expressions in the preamble were removed in 1995. In the 2001 amendment, the concept of a secular and democratic republic based on human rights was added to Article 14, and its definition was established."

Following his speech, Ankara Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Mansur Yavaş reacted by saying, "The fact that it is positive according to you does not change the situation." Another criticism came from Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu.

Ekrem İmamoğlu met with members of the press today. Responding to questions, İmamoğlu also touched upon Kaboğlu's statement, saying: "It was an unfortunate statement, a poor start."

İmamoğlu included the following expressions in his speech:

"The first 4 articles of the Constitution are defined in a very positive and very strong manner, and there is no position or situation in Turkey where these four articles should be a subject of debate. This is very clear. In this context, we see this statement as a very unfortunate opening statement on behalf of Mr. Kaboğlu. Of course, he represents lawyers, the bar association has a preference, I cannot say anything about that. But it is an unfortunate statement. I think the polemic he created today is contrary to both his own work order and understanding, and the understanding of the bar association he represents. He can express his personal opinion, he has the freedom to do so, but I suggest that, given the position he now holds, he should make statements that represent the view of the bar association rather than expressing his personal opinion. He has made a poor start; I am saddened for his sake."