Orhan Turan, chairman of Turkey’s leading business association, TÜSİAD, and Mehmet Ömer Arif Aras, head of its advisory council, were detained on Wednesday following their public criticism of the government’s economic and judicial policies. Authorities have accused the two executives of “spreading misleading information” and “attempting to influence judicial proceedings.”.
Orhan Turan, chairman of the Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen’s Association (TÜSİAD), and Mehmet Ömer Arif Aras, chairman of TÜSİAD’s High Advisory Council, were taken into custody just days after delivering speeches critical of government policies at the association’s general assembly.
In a statement, the İstanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office announced that an investigation had been launched on February 13 into Turan’s remarks at the assembly, claiming his statements contained “misinformation likely to disrupt public order” and could “influence and direct judicial authorities regarding certain ongoing investigations and prosecutions.”
Police took Turan and Aras into custody for questioning, and both are expected to face interrogation regarding their speeches and alleged intent to manipulate legal proceedings.
Mounting Pressure on Business Leaders
TÜSİAD, Turkey’s most powerful business association, has long played a pivotal role in economic policy discussions. While it was an influential force in the early 2000s, the organization has largely avoided direct confrontations with the government since the failed 2016 coup, fearing economic and legal repercussions.
However, during its recent general assembly, TÜSİAD leadership voiced sharp criticism of the government, citing concerns over the rule of law, judicial independence, and economic instability. Turan and Aras warned that the government’s policies were undermining business confidence and creating uncertainty for investors.
Their arrests came just hours after President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan condemned TÜSİAD in a speech, accusing the association of “overstepping its bounds” and trying to exert political influence.
Broader Crackdown on Dissent
The detentions are the latest in a series of actions against critics of the government, as Turkey continues to face economic turmoil and increasing scrutiny over its judicial system. Business leaders, journalists, and opposition figures have increasingly found themselves targeted by authorities, raising concerns over the erosion of free speech and democratic institutions.
The move against TÜSİAD leaders has drawn strong reactions from opposition figures and business circles, with calls for greater transparency and judicial independence. While no official statement has yet been made by TÜSİAD, the detentions signal an escalating rift between the government and the country’s business community.
As Turkey grapples with high inflation, currency depreciation, and declining foreign investment, analysts warn that the crackdown on economic voices may further damage investor confidence. The unfolding legal proceedings against Turan and Aras will be closely watched both domestically and internationally as an indicator of Turkey’s political and economic trajectory.
