Who is Sinem Dedetas? Likely successor for main opposition’s Istanbul Mayor Imamoglu
With early presidential election talks and Istanbul Mayor Imamoglu possibly stepping down, Uskudar's Dedetas says she’s “absolutely ready” to lead Istanbul. (Photo via Politikyol)
In Türkiye’s local elections on March 31, 2024, Sinem Dedetas of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) secured a decisive victory in Uskudar, a district previously dominated by the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party).
Dedetas, a prominent figure in Turkish politics, is increasingly discussed as a potential successor to Ekrem Imamoglu, the current mayor of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB).
‘I’m absolutely ready’
Amid growing calls from the main opposition CHP for an early election, discussions are intensifying regarding the party’s potential presidential candidate.
It is widely speculated that if an early election occurs, Imamoglu may run for president and pass on the IBB leadership to Sinem Dedetas, the current mayor of Uskudar.
With speculation about an early presidential election in Türkiye gaining momentum, reportedly, Imamoglu, likely to be a presidential candidate, might step down from his role as IBB mayor. When asked about her readiness to assume the position of Istanbul mayor, Dedetas confidently stated, “I am absolutely ready.”
During the “Istanbul House” event organized by the IBB to promote the city at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, Dedetas reaffirmed her readiness for the role. Speaking to Haberturk, she remarked, “I am absolutely ready.”
Who is Sinem Dedetas?
Sinem Dedetas, who won the Uskudar mayoral election with 49.9% of the vote, previously served as the head of the Chamber of Turkish Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (GMO) during its 44th term.
Born in 1981 in Eskisehir, Dedetas holds both undergraduate and master’s degrees in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from Istanbul Technical University (ITU). She spent approximately a decade working with national and international companies before co-founding her own firm with her husband.
From 2014 to 2016, Dedetas was head of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB). In 2019, she made history as the first female general manager of Istanbul City Lines Inc., a subsidiary of IBB. Her tenure saw a remarkable 295% increase in female employment, providing opportunities for female sailors, oilers, and captains for the first time.
In 2023, Dedetas was elected head of the Waterborne Transport Committee of the International Association of Public Transport (UITP).
