MHP reaction to Leyla Zana

During the TFF 2nd League match between Somaspor and Bursaspor in Soma, Bursaspor fans directed sexist and abusive chants at former HDP deputy Leyla Zana. These slogans, which continued throughout the match, eventually drew reactions from various segments of society.

OPEN REACTION FROM DEM PARTY

A reaction to the slogans against Zana also came from the DEM Party. Deputy Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey and DEM Party Van Deputy Pervin Buldan stated that the language used in the stands was contrary to the spirit of sports, saying, "Neither football nor values can be defended with profanity and insults. We reject this language targeting Leyla Zana. Sports should produce respect, not hostility. Human dignity comes before everything else."

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY

Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç also made a statement regarding the incident. Minister Tunç said, "The necessary judicial and administrative investigations are being carried out regarding the events. In this context, tape analyses and similar examinations are being conducted regarding the incidents that occurred. Authorized institutions are working on this matter."

STATEMENT FROM MHP'S ERKAN AKÇAY

A reaction to the abusive chants at the Somaspor-Bursaspor match also came from the MHP. MHP Group Deputy Chairman Erkan Akçay took the floor at the Parliamentary General Assembly regarding the issue and said the following:

"I strongly condemn the abusive chants directed at Leyla Zana. In 1992, the HEP delegation, of which Leyla Zana was a member, visited the MHP and our leader Alparslan Türkeş and presented a report. During that meeting, our leader Alparslan Türkeş addressed Leyla Zana as 'my daughter.' It was widely discussed at that time as well. She is a figure whom our leader Alparslan Türkeş addressed as 'my daughter,' period."