Kuşadası Mayor Sues for Defamation Over Bribery Allegations

Kuşadası Mayor Ömer Günel's legal team has initiated a defamation lawsuit and filed a criminal complaint against Sıddık Aydın, seeking 2 million lira in damages. The action stems from allegations made by Aydın, which prosecutors used as grounds to temporarily suspend Günel from his mayoral duties amid an investigation into bribery.

Günel's lawyers assert that Aydın's claims are "fabricated, planned, contrary to reality, and motivated by animosity." They argue these statements caused Günel's arrest, removal from office, and public disgrace. The lawsuit contends that Aydın's statements contradict basic logic and commercial sense, presenting a false narrative.

“

We demand a thorough investigation into all the allegations made against our client. We believe the truth will emerge when official records, bank movements, HTS data, and witness accounts are examined.

Further evidence cited includes official records of a 2020 restaurant tender, which indicate Aydın did not participate despite meeting the requirements. Lawyers also claim Aydın harbors a personal grudge against Günel due to various ongoing legal processes between Aydın and the municipality, including a 2021 zoning violation case. Previous investigations, based on expert assessments, reportedly found no public harm and cleared Günel of any responsibility.

Lawyer Serdar Mermut stated that a thorough investigation of official records, bank transactions, communication data, and witness testimonies is requested. He believes the case involves not just defamation but a politically and personally motivated smear campaign. The legal team is also seeking an examination of Aydın's call records, communication traffic, and bank account activities, emphasizing the severe reputational damage Günel has suffered.

“

We believe that in this case, there is not only slander but also a smear attempt shaped by political and personal animosity. Everyone will be held accountable for their actions in front of the law.