Turkish opposition İYİ Party Istanbul provincial office subjected to armed attack

Duvar English

Unidentified assailant(s) organized an armed attack against the opposition Good (İYİ) Party Istanbul Provincial building on March 31. A bullet hit the window of the building during the attack. 

Upon the notification of the people in the party building, several police officers arrived at the scene. Even though the attacker(s) fled, Istanbul Governor’s office stated that police launched an investigation on the issue. 

Interior Minister Süleyman Soylu announced that perpetrator of the armed attack on İYİ Party Istanbul Provincial building was captured. “Those in positions of responsibility need to be careful when making accusations. Our job is to catch criminals. Have faith in your state and police or you will be ashamed," he said referring to Akeşener’s statements.

After the attacks, party chair Meral Akşener arrived at the scene without guards and stated that her party’s building was shot after the threats of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan towards her on March 29. 

On a TV program he attended, President Erdoğan said “My name is Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Speak accordingly. Don't bother me with yourself,” referring to the Akşener's criticisms towards him. 

Akşener said “It is unacceptable to intimidate parties one and a half months before the elections. I fear no one but Allah Almighty. This bizarre system cannot last. Today they come for me, tomorrow they will come for you. On May 14th, our people will end this filthy system with their votes.” 

"In your (Erdoğan) era of power; All attacks on my house and my party friends went unpunished. Today, an armed attack was carried out on our Istanbul Provincial office, Mr. Recep! Instead of bullets, you come!" Akşener told Erdoğan on Twitter.

The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) spokeperson Ömer Çelik targeted Akşener while condemning the attacks. He stated that "Akşener's statement blaming Mr. President after this attack is an irresponsible and provocative approach." He added, "On May 14th, we will hold elections for our country in a democratic race. We are against provocations that seek to tarnish this environment, as well as against politicians that support them with irresponsible statements."

Interior Minister Süleyman Soylu deemed the attack "provocation" and added that the police forces are investigating it. "The perpetrator(s) will be found as soon as possible," Soylu said.

Presidential candidate of the main opposition bloc Nation Alliance, which includes İYİ Party, Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu said, "Ms. Meral is a strong leader, you cannot scare her like this. I expect the perpetrators to be caught immediately and brought to justice."

Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu said on social media that "I condemn the armed attack on the İYİ Party Istanbul Provincial Presidency. While conveying my get well wishes to our friends, I underline our expectation that the perpetrators will be brought to justice as soon as possible."