Journalist slams CHP's new press advisor over government ties and alleged 'bankomat' status

Journalist Fatih Altaylı has sharply criticized the appointment of Atakan Sönmez as the new press advisor to Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, the recently appointed leader of the CHP party. The move has reportedly caused public backlash due to Sönmez's known affiliations with media outlets close to the current government, specifically TGRT Haber, where he frequently appeared as a commentator.

Altaylı, in a recent column, leveled serious accusations against Sönmez, describing him with a "bloated ego" and suggesting he acts with an arrogance unbecoming of his position. "I'd call him Kılıçdaroğlu's Fahrettin, but even he wasn't this insolent," Altaylı wrote, referencing a figure known for perceived overreach. Altaylı questioned Sönmez's self-importance, stating, "You'd think he's the party leader, or at least the general secretary."

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You'd think he's the party leader, or at least the general secretary. I'd call him Kılıçdaroğlu's Fahrettin, but even he wasn't this insolent.

The article further alleges that Sönmez was a "bankomat" employee at the Kartal Municipality for many years. This term implies he received a salary without performing substantial duties. Altaylı claims Kılıçdaroğlu facilitated this employment, suggesting Sönmez was paid for years while simultaneously defending Kılıçdaroğlu on TGRT Haber. Altaylı contrasts this with how current party leader Özgür Özel might handle similar situations, implying a lack of humanity in Kılıçdaroğlu's actions, particularly regarding the dismissal of party workers.

Altaylı also highlighted Sönmez's defense of recent dismissals within the party, quoting him as saying, "These were done by administrative discretion. I will examine them one by one. If there is something I am not convinced is a justified dismissal, we will continue their contracts." Altaylı found this statement indicative of Sönmez's perceived overstepping of his role, again emphasizing the "first-person singular" usage and the "bloated ego."

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These were done by administrative discretion. I will examine them one by one. If there is something I am not convinced is a justified dismissal, we will continue their contracts.