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Switched to AKP, published a 'thank you' message to Erdoğan… Mesut Özarslan: 'Taking responsibility as part of service p

Switched to AKP, published a 'thank you' message to Erdoğan… Mesut Özarslan: 'Taking responsibility as part of service politics…'

From Cumhuriyet · () Turkish

Translated from Turkish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Keçiören Mayor Mesut Özarslan announced his resignation from the Republican People's Party (CHP) and joined the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP).
  • Özarslan cited his desire to serve Keçiören more effectively and contribute to national development under President Erdoğan's leadership.
  • He expressed gratitude to President Erdoğan and the AKP organization, emphasizing his commitment to serving all citizens regardless of their political background.

Keçiören Mayor Mesut Özarslan has announced his resignation from the Republican People's Party (CHP) and his subsequent joining of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). The announcement was made by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during an AKP meeting, where Özarslan was presented with an AKP badge.

Özarslan shared his decision on social media, stating that his primary focus has always been serving the nation. He explained that his move to the AKP is a result of evaluations and consultations aimed at enabling him to serve Keçiören more effectively and meet the district's needs with greater resources. He expressed his honor in becoming part of the "service politics" led by President Erdoğan, which focuses on Turkey's development and national prosperity.

In his statement, Özarslan extended his gratitude to President Erdoğan and the AKP organization for their trust. He emphasized that all citizens, regardless of their past political preferences or votes, are equally valued. He assured that the Keçiören Municipality's doors remain open to everyone, irrespective of their political views, lifestyle, or choices, as the mayoral office carries the trust of the entire city.

Özarslan thanked those who have supported him in the past and declared that a new chapter is beginning, with his commitment to Keçiören and his service approach remaining unchanged. He pledged to work collaboratively with all state institutions, party organizations, the municipal council, and citizens to build a stronger Keçiören, a more livable Ankara, and a more prosperous Turkey. He concluded by praying for success in this new path and wishing for the decision to be beneficial for Keçiören, Ankara, and the nation.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Cumhuriyet in Turkish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.