Turkey Investigates Billionaire Over Sexist Joke

Turkish prosecutors have initiated an investigation into Rahmi Koc, the 95-year-old honorary chairman of Turkey's largest conglomerate, Koc Holdings, following a widely condemned joke. The remarks, made at a hospital inauguration in Izmir, have been labeled as both sexist and discriminatory.

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Comments perceived as targeting women and citizens of a certain ethnic origin.

The joke centered on a misunderstanding between a Kurdish woman and a doctor. Its circulation online quickly ignited public outrage. The pro-Kurdish DEM party filed a complaint against Koc, citing "public incitement to hatred and hostility," "insult," and "hatred and discrimination."

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Making such remarks under the guise of a joke or humor does not diminish the discourtesy shown to our women and a certain segment of society.

Turkey's Minister of Justice, Yilmaz Tunç, confirmed the investigation, stating on X that the probe concerns comments "perceived as targeting women and citizens of a certain ethnic origin." He emphasized that such remarks, even under the guise of humor, demonstrate discourtesy towards women and a segment of society.

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I want to sincerely express my regret.

In response to the backlash, Koc issued a brief apology through Koc Holdings' X account. He expressed sincere regret, asserting that his comments were "not intended to target any specific group." The apology came after significant public outcry and the DEM party's formal legal complaint.

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My comments were not intended to target any specific group.