Turkish cleric's nephew fires back at former deputy PM over 'Süleymancılar' comments

A heated exchange has erupted between former Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bülent Arınç and Fatih Süleyman Denizolgun, the nephew of the late leader of the Süleymancılar religious community. The dispute centers on Arınç's recent characterization of an ongoing investigation into the community as a mere "property dispute among cousins."

“

I will expose your lies with evidence!

Denizolgun vehemently rejected Arınç's framing, accusing the former official of "distortion and disinformation." In a strong rebuttal, Denizolgun declared his intention to expose Arınç's alleged falsehoods with concrete evidence in future statements. He specifically challenged Arınç's claims regarding his father and uncle, as well as party matters, calling them "entirely false."

“

What you said about my father and uncle, and also about the party, is entirely false. If you wish, I will expose these lies with evidence in my next writing.

Arınç had previously suggested that the investigation might not have occurred if the Süleymancılar community had supported the ruling AK Party. He also described the rift within the community as stemming from a conflict between two brothers, one of whom became an AK Party lawmaker, leading to a dispute over property. Denizolgun countered that the core issue was not about property but involved alleged bribery attempts to influence legal proceedings and bureaucracy.

“

As always, despite your age, you continue to take the wrong side of history, the side of falsehood and untruth.

Denizolgun further criticized Arınç for what he perceived as siding with the "wrong side of history" and "untrue" elements. He questioned Arınç's alignment, especially in light of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's past remarks about an "octopus system." Denizolgun posed pointed questions about Arınç's support for the leadership of the "Kurişilik" system, which he described as a criminal organization posing a threat to national security.

“

Isn't the community leg of the octopus system the Kurişilik people?