Erdoğan threatens opposition candidates, says holding on to criminal records

News About Turkey - NAT
1 Min Read
Turkish President and leader of Turkey's ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party Recep Tayyip Erdogan addresses the crowd during his party's parliamentary group meeting at the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (GNAT) in Ankara, on October 02, 2018. / AFP PHOTO / ADEM ALTAN
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reiterated his threats against mayoral candidates from opposition parties on Thursday, saying the government is holding on to criminal records for action against some of them after the elections on March 31.

Claiming that some candidates involved in terrorist activities are running for office during an election rally in Ankara, Erdoğan said, “We are keeping their GBT [General Information Collection] for now, and we will take steps depending on the election results.”

Targeting a candidate in southeastern Mardin province without mentioning a name, Erdoğan said the government cannot wait three to five years to take action on this candidate’s alleged terrorist links, referring to the standard four-year time in office for a mayor.

Turkey has dismissed a number of elected mayors in the Kurdish-majority Southeast over the last few years on allegations of disseminating terrorist propaganda.

In addition, Erdoğan’s ruling party claims that the opposition candidate for Ankara, Mansur Yavaş, is not fit for office due to corruption allegations against him that have not yet been substantiated.

Erdoğan stated several times that Yavaş cannot serve even if he is elected on March 31.

Source: Turkish Minute

Share This Article
Founded by a small group of Turkish/Kurdish scholars who have been subjected to persecution at the hands of the Erdogan dictatorship, News About Turkey (NAT) has emerged as a platform that is both exceptional and invaluable. Our objective is to provide you with a comprehensive and sophisticated understanding of the events and developments in Turkey (Türkiye), a country with profound historical and geopolitical importance, a vibrant culture, and a strategic location. Our founders, who have been purged by the Erdogan regime after the so-called coup attempt, are aware of the significance of journalism that is both free and independent. Because of this understanding, we are committed to providing reporting and analysis that is both objective and comprehensive. To give you the most thorough coverage of Turkey, we go further than just scratching the surface. Keep in touch with us so that you can have a better understanding of Turkey's developing story as well as vital and comprehensive news items. Whether you are a resident of Turkey, a member of the Turkish/Kurdish diaspora, or simply someone who has a strong interest in this vital country, we are the most reliable source for news that not only informs but also inspires and engages you.
Leave a comment