New transfer claim in İzmir politics: AKP's contacts continue
Following Foça and Çiğli, a new claim of a party switch has emerged in İzmir. It has been alleged that Kınay has been in contact with AKP figures.
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While rumors regarding mayors switching parties have been circulating in İzmir recently, a new claim has emerged concerning Karabağlar Mayor Helil İnay Kınay.
Following the defection of the mayors of Foça and Çiğli to the AKP, it is stated that contacts are ongoing for other mayors in the city. During this process, İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Cemil Tugay's resignation from the CHP to remain independent and his meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan have also been among the prominent topics in İzmir politics.
According to a report by OdaTV, it is alleged that Karabağlar Mayor Kınay has been in contact with certain AKP figures in recent days and has been discussing a potential party switch with her inner circle. The claim, which cites municipal sources, also suggests that Kınay has sought support from certain intermediaries for a transition to the AKP.
THE STANCE OF COUNCIL MEMBERS IS A MATTER OF CURIOSITY
According to the claim, it is assessed that if Kınay were to make such a decision, she could face backlash in the Karabağlar Municipal Council. It is stated that CHP council members do not look favorably upon a potential transfer process.
Kınay had previously come to the agenda following the 2024 local elections due to certain allegations regarding the municipal administration. The report stated that individuals close to the Uğantaş family are influential in the municipality and that allegations regarding the money flow related to campaign financing during the election period are being discussed.
It was also alleged that five inspectors launched an investigation at the Karabağlar Municipality in February of this year, and that when the inspectors left the municipality in July, they submitted approximately 55 kilograms of documents to the Ministry of Interior. According to information relayed from Ankara, the testimonies of 79 people, including deputy mayors, personnel, and council members, were taken by the Civil Inspection Board in April.
In Ankara political circles, however, comments are being made that due to the allegations brought against Kınay, a potential transfer would be difficult to be approved by President and AKP Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.