Restraining order issued against politician Berhan Şimşek for domestic violence

A restraining order has been issued against Berhan Şimşek, who was appointed as a deputy chairman by Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, due to allegations of psychological and physical abuse against his partner, Özlem Şanver. The initial two-month order, granted in April 2026 under Law No. 6284 for protection, was extended for an additional two months on June 29th.

The Istanbul Anadolu 1st Family Court determined that the risk of Şanver experiencing violence persisted. The court's decision to extend the protective measures was based on Şanver's statements, case file, and UYAP (National Judicial Network Information System) records. The court mandated that Şimşek refrain from threats, insults, or degrading behavior towards Şanver for two months. He is also prohibited from approaching her home, workplace, or school, and must surrender any legally possessed firearms to law enforcement.

The court warned that violating these measures could lead to coercive imprisonment. In a separate development concerning Şimşek's alleged actions, Şanver had filed a request for coercive imprisonment after claiming the restraining order was violated. This request was initially denied by the first-instance court.

However, upon appeal, the Istanbul Anadolu 2nd Family Court overturned the denial. The higher court found that the first-instance court had not adequately evaluated the victim's statements and other evidence presented. Consequently, the case file has been sent back to the Istanbul Anadolu 1st Family Court for a new review regarding the coercive imprisonment request.