YENİ Party Group Deputy Chairman Ali Mahir Başarır reacted to the detention of the Mersin Metropolitan Municipality Mayor and two district mayors during the early morning hours. Başarır argued that this practice signifies a different treatment directed toward members of the opposition.
Stating that he had planned to be in Parliament on the first day of the new legislative year but was in Mersin due to the developments, Başarır said that the mayors were detained early in the morning "as if they were going to flee." Başarır stated that the Mersin Metropolitan Municipality was won with approximately 60 percent of the vote and the districts with nearly 70 percent, adding, "The will of Mersin was in this direction."
Emphasizing that trial without detention is the principle in criminal law, Başarır said he does not want anyone to be arrested but that equal treatment must be applied to politicians. "Everyone comes, gives their statement, and evidence is collected. If there is something, the court will do what is necessary," said Başarır, noting that the method of detention was not correct.
Expressing that the people of Mersin do not deserve this situation, Başarır said he has known Mersin Metropolitan Mayor Vahap Seçer for many years and has political and personal history with the other district mayors as well.
Do not wear down the political institution this much. Do not undermine the will of the nation this much. Tomorrow, the political institution will be completely buried under this.
Stating that they will follow the process in Mersin, Başarır concluded his statement with the words, "We are here, we will follow the process."
News Source: 12punto
