Turmoil Erupts at Izmir Parliament Meeting – Breaking News from Milliyet
The third session of the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality September ordinary council meeting was held with Mayor Cemil Tugay presiding. During the meeting, the strategic plans for the next 5 years for both the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality and ESHOT were discussed and approved. The Izmir Metropolitan Municipality’s 2025-2029 Period Strategic Plan was accepted by majority vote, while ESHOT General Directorate’s 2025-2029 Period Strategic Plan was approved unanimously.
However, tensions arose during the meeting when AK Party Assembly Member Abdulhakim Evin mentioned the ‘Gezi vandalism’ incident and criticized the government’s strategic plans. This led to a heated exchange between AK Party and CHP members, resulting in a temporary break in the session called by Mayor Tugay.
After the break, discussions continued, with AK Party Group Deputy Chairman Hakan Yıldız expressing concerns about the behavior of some CHP members. The meeting further escalated when CHP Assembly Member Hacer Taş Gültepe began reading a press release, prompting AKP and MHP group members to leave the assembly in protest.
Mayor Tugay later addressed the incidents, emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue and constructive criticism. He called for a more professional approach to discussions, especially on important matters such as the strategic plan. Tugay acknowledged the need for self-criticism and collaboration to address the city’s challenges effectively.
The meeting highlighted the importance of open communication and cooperation among council members to serve the interests of the city and its residents. Despite the disagreements and tensions, the council members must work together to achieve the shared goal of improving Izmir’s future.
