METU Banners This Year Highlight 'Invalidity' and Political Satire

Middle East Technical University's graduation ceremony in Ankara became a platform for students to express their views through banners, reflecting the current political climate.

This year, many banners focused on Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, who was appointed to lead the CHP party after a court ruling declared the previous leadership invalid. One banner depicted Kılıçdaroğlu sitting on a chair, with the text "Get up from the seat, you're blocking the banner."

Students also referenced the arrest of comedian Deniz Göktaş, whose "Dead Sea" performance included the line "He has a special condition." This phrase appeared on multiple banners.

Additionally, the students' messages alluded to the ongoing situation surrounding Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, who has been detained since March 23, 2025, in Silivri's Marmara Prison. Banners suggested his diploma might be invalidated.