Opposition leader visits tradespeople in Kocaeli: 'Retirees used to buy 8 gold coins, now only 2'

Republican People's Party (CHP) Chairman Özgür Özel engaged with tradespeople and residents in Kocaeli's Karamürsel district, focusing on the economic struggles faced by small business owners and retirees.

During his visit, Özel observed a significant decline in the number of tailors, noting a drastic reduction from twenty to just one in many areas. He lamented the "laborization" of professional trades, stating that former tailors now work in less dignified conditions, "sewing hems under exhaust fumes in the AVM's basement." This observation underscored his broader concern about the changing nature and economic viability of skilled professions.

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There is a laborization of professional trades worldwide. The tailor of the past is now sewing hems in the basement of an AVM under exhaust fumes.

Conversations with local business owners revealed a stark picture of diminished purchasing power. When asked about the current economic situation compared to a decade ago, one tradesperson, who had transitioned from teaching to running a family business, confirmed the low purchasing power. Özel elaborated on this trend, drawing a comparison for retirees: "Twenty years ago, a retiree could buy 8 gold coins with their pension. Ten years ago, it dropped to 5, and now it's down to 2. Business is declining accordingly."

Özel also met with a young swimming champion and a Cyprus war veteran, engaging in conversations that touched upon personal achievements and historical memories. He also visited a pharmacy, joking about his profession, and spoke with a shoemaker, noting the scarcity of new artisans in both production and repair. The visit concluded with Özel attending Friday prayers at the Karamürsel Central Mosque.

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Twenty years ago, a retiree could buy 8 gold coins with their pension. Ten years ago, it dropped to 5, and now it's down to 2. Business is declining accordingly.