August 30 poster crisis in Muğla: Controversial photo does not go unnoticed

Celebration posters prepared by Muğla Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Aras for the August 30 Victory Day have been placed on billboards throughout the province and its districts. The posters featured the message, "May our Victory Day, filled with the pride of our unique victory, be celebrated." The design included a photograph of Mayor Ahmet Aras and an Atatürk silhouette within the text "August 30." However, this choice sparked debate in Muğla and on social media.

Some citizens argued that Atatürk should have been featured more prominently on the August 30 posters. Comments on social media highlighted the view that, "Victory Day was won under Atatürk's leadership; his direct photograph should have been there."

In contrast, some users supported Aras, stating that it is natural for mayors to share celebration messages featuring their own photographs.

SHARP REACTION FROM NEJAT İŞLER'S LAWYER

Göray Karadut, the lawyer for famous actor Nejat İşler, reacted harshly to the posters. In a post on his social media account, Karadut stated the following:

"When you see the photo, you would think he was the one who gave the order for the Great Offensive, you would think he was the ox pulling Elif's oxcart. You would think Fevzi Çakmak, İsmet İnönü, Yakup Şevki Subaşı... What is the causal link between your photo and Victory Day that all the billboards in Muğla are decorated with photos of you taken with a victorious air? Ahmet Aras, what are we paying for your photo album on the public's back?"

Karadut also announced that he would file an application under the Right to Information Act to have the Muğla Metropolitan Municipality's advertising budget audited.

ARAS'S STATEMENTS BROUGHT BACK TO THE AGENDA

Mayor Ahmet Aras had frequently emphasized in his recent statements that he is "a soldier of Atatürk."

News Source: 12punto