Ankara Mayor Yavas expresses frustration over presidential candidacy debates

Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur Yavas, a key figure in Türkiye’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), expressed frustration over continued comparisons with Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu in discussions about the party’s potential presidential candidate.

Yavas emphasized that these debates should only take place when the time is right and expressed discomfort with provocative statements made by journalists and advisors, which he believes create unnecessary tension. “I am very uncomfortable with this,” Yavas stated.

‘Real issues should be discussed’

In an interview with a Turkish media outlet Sozcu, Yavas expressed concern over how the presidential candidacy discussions have dominated public discourse.

“TV should discuss the hardships people are experiencing. We have no right to overshadow these issues. I haven’t said a word about this topic,” he said.

‘Lessons should be learned’

Yavas referred to the prolonged debate about the opposition’s presidential candidate ahead of the 2023 elections, suggesting that both the opposition and the government wasted too much time on the issue.

“As we approached 2023, we dealt with constant speculation over who would be the candidate. The ruling side took full advantage of this. Lessons should be learned from that,” he remarked. He also urged for an end to provocative remarks made by various media figures.

Yavas voiced his dissatisfaction with the candidacy discussions, emphasizing the need to concentrate on municipal responsibilities and the work ahead. He highlighted that these debates are concerning as they distract from critical issues facing the public, such as the challenges faced by retirees, hunger, and problems in education.

He stressed that the ongoing discussions are hindering attention to these pressing matters, stating, “We have no right to take the spotlight away from these issues.”

‘It’s not time for these conversations’

When asked about the timing of the candidacy discussions, Yavas responded, “There’s a time for everything. Who knows what will happen tomorrow?”

Yavas asserted that municipal leaders have a primary responsibility to manage their cities, urging party members to focus on their opposition efforts and develop better solutions. He emphasized that it is not their role to engage in speculation, stating that anyone participating in such discussions is harming the country.

Early election comments from Yavas

Yavas also weighed in on the opposition’s call for early elections, agreeing that it was justified.

“The people are beginning to raise their voices. Unless the government determines that it’s time for a fresh mandate, we cannot go to elections. Engaging in baseless criticisms and fostering divisions only benefits the government. Isn’t that clear?”

In response to independent MP Yuksel Arslan, who had previously criticized Imamoglu, Yavas distanced himself from such remarks. He emphasized he does not approve of such comments, adding that no one close to him would speak that way.

No intention of resigning

Yavas firmly denied any rumors of resignation, stating that he had no such intention. He emphasized that the people entrusted him with this responsibility, and his party nominated him. His focus is on executing projects that serve as examples for the rest of Türkiye and showcase their capability to govern effectively. “That’s my goal,” he concluded.