Response from Resul Emrah Şahan to a citizen complainant: 'Unfortunately, I am imprisoned, my brother'

Resul Emrah Şahan, the democratically elected mayor of Şişli, Turkey, has responded to a citizen's complaint regarding street cleanliness. The citizen had tagged Şahan on social media to voice their concerns about the state of garbage collection in the district.

In his reply, Şahan explained his current inability to address the issue directly due to his imprisonment. He stated, "You have tagged me, but unfortunately, I am imprisoned, my brother." He clarified that the municipality of Şişli is not under his administration but is instead being managed by an appointed trustee, a common practice when elected officials are removed from office.

Şahan conveyed his personal distress over the situation, adding, "Believe me, I am also watching with regret..." His response highlights the political circumstances affecting the governance of Şişli and underscores the frustration felt by both the mayor and the citizens regarding the perceived decline in municipal services under trustee rule.

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You have tagged me, but unfortunately, I am imprisoned, my brother. Şişli is not managed by me, but by a trustee. Believe me, I am also watching with regret…