Cemil Tugay breaks silence on claims he will join the AKP! 'I would never...'

Claims that İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Cemil Tugay would "join the AKP" continue to occupy the agenda after he announced, following his resignation from the CHP on June 18, that he would take part in the NEW Party to be founded by Özgür Özel.

Tugay, who stated in a declaration made in the first days after leaving the CHP that "There is no such thing as me joining the AKP. Many district mayors and council members were going to resign with me, but I prevented it," had announced after the NEW Party was founded on July 24 that he would continue his path as an independent.

As the date of August 14, the 25th anniversary of the AKP's founding, approaches, it has been suggested that Tugay would join the AKP on this date.

Tugay met with İZBETON employees following the claims about him changing parties that have come to the agenda. Tugay addressed the workers at a breakfast program held at İZBETON's construction site in Bornova.

Tugay, whose participation in the NEW Party remains uncertain and against whom claims of joining the AKP have been made, said in his speech, "I would never betray this country. I will fight against anyone involved in such a betrayal."

Tugay's statement is as follows:

"I would never betray this country. I will fight against anyone involved in such a betrayal. What I want is not your applause, but the trust and consent in your hearts. Let us act in solidarity, believing in one another. The nation brought us to this duty, and you are also performing public service. Together, we will take ownership of our work in a way that will not embarrass us before the people.

I will not allow anyone to make even the slightest mistake. No matter which side anyone defines themselves on, the only thing that matters to me is your friendship, belief, and solidarity. May God be pleased with you all. You work very hard and do difficult jobs. Your efforts are invaluable. This municipality will get better every day. We will not allow anyone to take this municipality to a bad place; we will ensure this together."

News Source: 12punto