Tanju Özcan Tells Protester Wife: “I’ll Join Your Protest, I’ll Be Home Late” – Breaking News from Turkey
In 2018, a total of 25 bungalow houses were constructed in Gölcük Nature Park, sparking controversy over their potential impact on the environment. A lawsuit was filed to halt the project on the grounds that the bungalows would harm the natural surroundings. However, the Council of State recently overturned the decision to cancel the project, transferring the right to rent the bungalows to the municipality.
The issue of the 17-year rental of the bungalows was set to be discussed at a council meeting, leading to protests from Gölcük Platform members, including Meral Özcan, the wife of Bolu Mayor Tanju Özcan. In a humorous exchange, Mayor Özcan responded to his wife’s protest by jokingly stating, “I am protesting against you too. I will come home late this evening.”
The protesters emphasized that Gölcük belongs to the people and should remain accessible to all. As a result of the demonstrations, the issue of renting the bungalows was withdrawn by a unanimous vote of the municipal council members.
The future of the bungalow houses in Gölcük Nature Park remains uncertain as the community debates the balance between development and preservation of the natural environment. Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing issue.
