Beşir Atalay's name removed from university campus: 'Disloyalty' reaction from AKP

The administration of Kırıkkale University has decided to remove the name of Beşir Atalay, a former Interior Minister and one of the founding members of the AKP, from its campus. This decision was taken unanimously during a meeting held by the university administration on July 16, 2025, and the new name of the campus was designated as "Martyrs' Campus."

Beşir Atalay served as the first rector of the university, which was founded in 1992, and resigned from the AKP in 2019.

Following the decision, AKP Group Deputy Chairman and former Minister of Justice Abdulhamit Gül reacted to the situation in a statement on his social media account. Gül stated, "Professor Beşir Atalay has made great contributions to our country and our nation. I learned of this decision taken by Kırıkkale University with sadness. This is a denial of the past and a disregard for loyalty. Loyalty is the backbone of our struggle."

Atalay's name had been given to the university campus in 2017. However, with the latest decision, the name change at the entrance of the campus has also been implemented. Gül expressed his hope that this decision would be reversed as soon as possible.

News Source: 12punto