Author Mustafa Balbay meets readers in Kuşadası, criticizes mayor's detention

Journalist and author Mustafa Balbay engaged with readers in the Turkish coastal town of Kuşadası, signing copies of his books. Upon arrival, Balbay was welcomed by Birtan Tütüncü, the Deputy Mayor of Kuşadası.

Before meeting his fans, Balbay made a point to visit the 'Justice and Solidarity' tent erected in İsmail Cem Barış ve Dostluk Meydanı. This tent serves as a support center for the town's detained Mayor, Ömer Günel.

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We are going through a difficult and dark period. I hope that Mayor Ömer Günel, who was unjustly removed from his duty, will regain his freedom as soon as possible. I experienced this process myself at the time. The arrest of a mayor elected by the will of the people in this way, without concrete evidence, is contrary to reason and logic, as well as laws.

Addressing the crowd at Atatürk Square, Balbay expressed his views on the current political climate and the situation of Mayor Günel. "We are going through a difficult and dark period," Balbay stated, expressing hope for the swift release of Mayor Günel, who he believes was unjustly removed from his post. Balbay drew parallels to his own past experiences, emphasizing that the detention of an elected official without concrete evidence is illogical and contradicts legal principles.

Balbay, who has visited Kuşadası multiple times, praised the town as a beautiful city inhabited by "enlightened and republican people." He commended Mayor Günel's tenure, noting that his investments had transformed Kuşadası. Balbay concluded by asserting that Kuşadası will continue to stand by its mayor and his mandate.

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Kuşadası will stand by its mayor and his will until the end.