Turkish mayor addresses love affair rumors with opposition leader in new video

Manisa’s Sehzadeler Mayor Gulsah Durbay publicly denied allegations of an affair with the leader of Türkiye’s main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), Ozgur Ozel.

These accusations, initially spread by journalist Ebru Kucukaydin, caused a major stir in Turkish media. In an emotional video, Turkish Mayor Durbay clarified her situation and emphasized that she is focused on battling cancer, not on any inappropriate relationship.

How Turkish main opposition members’ love affair rumors started

The affair rumors began after CHP leader Ozel injured his leg in an accident at his home in Manisa two months ago.

• Kucukaydin published an article in early October, alleging that Ozel’s injury was the result of a confrontation with Gulsah Durbay’s father.
• The article further claimed that Durbay had become pregnant over the summer and had an abortion.
• Kucukaydin’s article, posted on a local Antalya news site, sparked widespread speculation. Her reporting, framed with phrases such as “rumors suggest” and “it is alleged,” did not offer concrete evidence.

Despite this, the accusations gained traction in both traditional media outlets and on social media platforms, where the claims were picked up by online commentators.

Turkish Mayor Gulsah Durbay’s response: Battling cancer, not rumors

Gulsah Durbay posted a five-minute video on social media addressing the rumors of an affair with Ozel on Oct. 4, 2024.

In the video, she firmly denied the allegations and explained that her absence from public events was due to ongoing cancer treatment, not the scandal.

• “These are baseless lies,” Durbay stated emotionally. “I have been dealing with colon cancer since September. I will take legal action against every individual spreading these falsehoods.”

Durbay shared details about her health:

• Underwent bowel surgery on Aug. 2 at Izmir 9 Eylul University Hospital.
• Returned to her duties soon after but was diagnosed with colon cancer on Sept. 4.
• Began chemotherapy shortly after her diagnosis.

She initially delayed sharing her condition publicly because her sister was experiencing a high-risk pregnancy, and she did not want to add stress to her family.

• “These accusations have hurt not just me, but my entire family,” she added. “While I was receiving chemotherapy, my family had to rush to explain the situation to my pregnant sister, and I could not even tell her myself. I will neither forgive nor forget this.”

Who is Turkish Mayor Gulsah Durbay?

Born on Jan. 4, 1988, in Manisa, Gulsah Durbay became the first female mayor of the Sehzadeler district in the March 2024 elections. Before her political career, she earned a degree in food engineering from Hacettepe University and worked as a consultant in various private companies, specializing in food safety and workplace quality.

Her political journey began in the CHP’s youth branches in Manisa, where she quickly rose through the ranks. Durbay’s victory in the 2024 local elections marked a significant shift in the district’s political landscape, as Sehzadeler had previously been an AK Party stronghold. Her election victory, with 38% of the vote, signaled a new era for the district.

Despite facing health challenges, Durbay remains committed to her responsibilities as mayor.

“I will overcome this illness and continue to serve the people of Sehzadeler with the same dedication I have always shown,” she stated in her video.

Main opposition leader Ozel takes legal action

Ozel, who has also been targeted by these allegations, quickly supported Durbay’s denial.

On his social media, Ozel retweeted Durbay’s video and expressed his frustration with the accusations.

• Called the rumors an “intentional attack” designed to undermine both his leadership and Durbay’s reputation.
• Revealed that he had begun legal proceedings against those involved in spreading the rumors, including Kucukaydin.
• Disclosed that three individuals, reportedly connected to former CHP leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, had been involved in disseminating these claims. Ozel has taken steps to hold all parties responsible.

“This is not just about protecting my reputation,” Ozel said in a public statement. “These false claims harm our party and our work. We will take all necessary legal measures.”

Kucukaydin faces consequences for false reporting

Kucukaydin, a CHP member and journalist, now faces disciplinary action within her party. The CHP Muratpasa District Branch announced on Oct. 4, 2024, that Kucukaydin had been referred to the party’s disciplinary committee, with a recommendation for expulsion. The committee will review the case, as Kucukaydin’s reporting has been deemed harmful to the party’s public image.

The party’s leadership emphasized that Kucukaydin’s actions were not consistent with the values of the CHP and that her article lacked any credible sources or verified information. The journalist had previously run for a parliamentary seat and had ties to Kilicdaroglu’s leadership circle, adding another layer of political intrigue to the situation.

Legal proceedings, public reactions: What’s next for Durbay, Ozel?

The scandal has sparked mixed reactions across Türkiye. Many of Durbay’s colleagues, particularly female politicians, have expressed their solidarity.

Eskisehir Mayor Ayse Unluce stated, “Women in politics face constant attacks. We will stand by Gulsah Durbay and will not allow such lies to bring her down.”

Legal proceedings continue, with both Durbay and Ozel determined to clear their names and hold those responsible accountable.

• Durbay has already filed lawsuits against over 100 individuals and institutions involved in spreading the rumors. In her video, she said, “I will not let this stop me. With the support of my people, I will fight both my illness and these false allegations.”
• Ozel echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that those involved would face legal consequences. He has filed both defamation and damages lawsuits following the scandal.

Despite facing both a health crisis and a public scandal, Durbay remains committed to her role as mayor of Sehzadeler.

“I will not let these lies stop me from serving the people of Sehzadeler, I will fight for justice, for my health, and for my community.”

Gulsah Durbay said in her closing remarks

Her video, where she openly addressed the rumors, resonated with many, earning her widespread support from both her constituents and fellow politicians.