DEM Party leader slams Rahmi Koç over 'joke' targeting Kurdish women

Koç Holding Honorary Chairman Rahmi Koç has drawn sharp criticism for telling a joke perceived as racist against Kurdish women at a hospital opening ceremony in İzmir. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for an apology.

DEM Party Co-Chair Tuncer Bakırhan was among the first to condemn Koç's remarks. In a statement on social media, Bakırhan denounced the joke as "racist discourse that demeans Kurdish women," calling the language "unacceptable." He emphasized that women's bodies, identities, and dignity are not subjects for jokes, and no status or privilege can justify demeaning Kurdish women. Bakırhan concluded by stating that his party rejects this approach and expects a clear apology.

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I condemn Rahmi Koç's racist discourse that demeans Kurdish women. This language is unacceptable. Women's bodies, identities, and dignity are not subjects for jokes. No status, no privilege can demean Kurdish women. We reject this approach and expect a clear apology.

The controversial joke was reportedly told during the opening of a new hospital under Koç Healthcare, part of the Vehbi Koç Foundation. Attendees included prominent figures such as Ali Koç, Semahat Arsel, former Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım, and the Governor of İzmir, Süleyman Elban. Video footage showed Binali Yıldırım laughing at Koç's joke, which has further fueled public anger.

Following the backlash, the İzmir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office initiated a formal investigation into Koç's statements. Rahmi Koç subsequently issued an apology, stating, "I sincerely apologize for my words, which were not intended to target any identity. I want to share my regret with sincerity. Respectfully."

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I sincerely apologize for my words, which were not intended to target any identity. I want to share my regret with sincerity. Respectfully.