Gürsel Tekin responds to 'paid extra' allegations, calls it a 'FETÖ-style trap'

Gürsel Tekin, appointed as the trustee to the CHP İstanbul Provincial Presidency, responded to the "paid extra" allegations regarding the CHP membership ceremony attended by Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu during a press conference. Describing the allegations as a "dirty trap," Tekin announced that they had filed a criminal complaint regarding the matter.

In a report by BirGün reporter Ebru Çelik, it was claimed that hundreds of people were brought to the ceremony from three different casting agencies for a fee of 950 liras. The report alleged that some individuals said they came to the event thinking it was a film, series, or commercial set, and that they were made to rehearse slogans and applause before the program in Sarıyer.

TEKİN: WE HAVE FILED A CRIMINAL COMPLAINT

Stating that the hall's capacity was limited and that the names of the participants were therefore taken in advance, Tekin said, "Many of our friends come with their own means. Some of our young friends asked us for transportation support when the number was high. Other than that, we are not in a position to spend money."

Denying the allegations, Tekin stated, "It is something that wouldn't even cross the devil's mind; only two people could know about it. This trap is FETÖ-style. Being a party member is entirely based on volunteerism. We have never been on any dirty side."

Defending that they were unaware of the organization carried out through casting agencies, Tekin said, "We filed a criminal complaint immediately that night. We have never been on any dirty side, we have never set a trap for anyone. Whoever set this trap, dear prosecutors, you must get to the bottom of it."

In his statement, Tekin also lashed out at some journalists and figures within the CHP, arguing that there was no room left in the hall and that "700-800 friends" could not get inside. Tekin said that the allegations should be investigated by judicial authorities.