Manisa Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Besim Dutlulu made a statement regarding claims that he would join the AKP. Responding to questions at a press conference he held, Dutlulu stated that he had not received any official offer, saying, “I have no intention of going anywhere.”
Dutlulu said that while such conversations have occasionally taken place with AKP figures, changing parties is not on his agenda. Expressing that his priority for the remainder of his term is to serve Manisa and complete the projects that have been initiated, Dutlulu stated that politics remains a secondary concern for him.
Stating that he receives support from citizens of different political views, Dutlulu emphasized equality in municipal services. Noting that they are focused on infrastructure, transportation, and field work in the city, Dutlulu reported that they have resolved a significant portion of the demands coming from neighborhoods.
CALL FOR MUNICIPAL FUNDING
Touching upon the financial structure of municipalities, Dutlulu said that under the current system, external loans or Iller Bank loans are needed for major investments. Stating that district municipalities can struggle even to pay salaries with their tax shares, Dutlulu emphasized that the own-source revenues of local governments must be strengthened.
Dutlulu called for the expansion of municipal budgets and for local government reform. Regarding the investigation into the past accounts of Manisa Metropolitan Belediyespor, he drew attention to the presumption of innocence; he said that the documents requested from the municipality have been delivered to the relevant chief public prosecutor's offices.
Making assessments regarding agricultural production in Manisa, Dutlulu stated that grape and olive producers are going through a difficult period. Stating that producers selling fresh grapes, especially in Sarıgöl and Alaşehir, are experiencing serious difficulties, Dutlulu noted that while Turkish Grain Board (TMO) purchases of raisins have provided partial relief, the problem persists for fresh grapes.
Saying that olive producers are also under pressure due to rising costs and low prices in international markets, Dutlulu expressed that state support for producers should be increased. He warned that farmers moving away from production could have serious consequences for Turkey.
On the subject of transportation, Dutlulu argued that the İZBAN line should be extended to the Manisa City Hospital, stating that the line could provide a rail system solution for urban transportation by passing through the TOKİ, Akgedik, and Celal Bayar University route.
News Source: 12punto
