Expenditures during the tenure of State Theatres General Manager Tamer Karadağlı have once again become a subject of debate. According to a report by Mustafa Bildircin from BirGün, 6 million 725 thousand 393 TL was spent on private office services at the institution between January and April 2026.
It was stated that this budget item also covers the general manager's work schedule as well as arrangements for protocol and ceremonial affairs. The fact that this expenditure occurred within just the first 120 days of the year has intensified discussions regarding the institution's budget and administrative expenses.
Actor Tamer Karadağlı was appointed as the General Manager of State Theatres on August 11, 2023. Following the appointment, debates regarding merit had emerged in art circles, with some artists arguing that a strong theatrical background was necessary for the position of General Manager of State Theatres.
TRAVEL EXPENSES ALSO ON THE AGENDA
During Karadağlı's tenure, the institution's travel expenses have also become a subject of criticism. According to the report, a travel budget of 55 million 520 thousand TL was allocated to the State Theatres for 2025; however, by the end of the year, spending in this category reached 177 million 239 thousand TL.
The travel budget item includes personnel expenses for travel, meals, and accommodation within the scope of domestic assignments. The fact that the expenditure exceeded the allocated budget by approximately 3.2 times has raised new questions regarding the use of public resources.
Karadağlı's remarks to artists after taking office, "The Tulip Era is over. If you are not going to work, resign," have also caused these discussions to be recalled. The private office and travel expenses at the institution, along with this statement, have placed him at the center of public criticism.
News Source: 12punto
