A series of legal operations targeting CHP-led municipalities in Türkiye has resulted in several mayors being arrested and removed from their posts. This trend was recently highlighted in Bursa, where the Metropolitan Municipality transitioned to AKP control following the arrest of Mayor Mustafa Bozbey.
Investigation Launched Against Eskişehir Mayor
The legal pressure has now extended to Eskişehir. Following a complaint filed by AKP Eskişehir Provincial Chair Gürhan Albayrak, the Eskişehir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has requested permission to launch an investigation into Mayor Ayşe Ünlüce.
The allegations against Mayor Ünlüce involve “misconduct in office” and “forgery of official documents.” The investigation focuses on claims that the municipality increased fees for ESKİ—specifically for discovery, water opening, and the removal or replacement of meters—by 48.5% in violation of Council decisions.
Former ESKİ General Manager Also Targeted
The legal scrutiny extends beyond the mayor’s office. Investigation permission has also been requested from the Ministry of Interior for Oğuzhan Özen, the General Manager of ESKİ who left his position last week.
Özen faces the same accusations as Mayor Ünlüce, specifically “forgery of official documents” and “misconduct in office,” following the criminal complaint lodged by the AKP provincial chair.
Potential Implications and Next Steps
Given the current trajectory of operations against CHP municipalities, the outcome of the requests for investigation permission in Eskişehir is critical. If approved, these proceedings could lead to further legal challenges for local administration.
Depending on the findings regarding the 48.5% fee increase and the alleged report falsifications, the municipal leadership in Eskişehir may face further instability or administrative restructuring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Mayor Ayşe Ünlüce under investigation?
The Eskişehir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has requested investigation permission based on allegations of “misconduct in office” and “forgery of official documents,” specifically regarding a 48.5% increase in ESKİ fees and the alleged falsification of commission reports.
Who is Oğuzhan Özen and what are the charges against him?
Oğuzhan Özen is the former General Manager of ESKİ who left his post last week. He is facing allegations of “misconduct in office” and “forgery of official documents.”
What happened to the leadership of the Bursa Metropolitan Municipality?
Following the arrest of Mayor Mustafa Bozbey, the Bursa Metropolitan Municipality passed to the AKP.
How do you think these legal proceedings will impact the administration of local services in affected cities?
