Written by Kemal Albayrak, Former Member of Parliament for Kırıkkale (20th–21st Terms)

I have a message for this government: Allegations of unlawful practices against the opposition must be examined thoroughly, and the principles of the rule of law must never be abandoned.

The opposition, the press, artists, intellectuals and politicians are important actors in a democratic society. They criticize government policies and serve as part of the public’s mechanism of oversight. For this reason, criticism must be heard and different views must be respected.

When I saw reports about the search of the Mersin mayor’s home, I was deeply concerned. Allegations that similar practices have caused hardship to many people in the past must also be investigated comprehensively and independently. The elderly, students, journalists, artists and people from all walks of society must not face prosecution simply because of their political views or affiliations.

Let us not forget: Unlawful practices, regardless of when they occur or whom they target, can create the conditions for new injustices in the future. Politics of retaliation is not the right path.

Every action taken by public officials and the political authorities can, when necessary, be examined by independent courts and democratic oversight mechanisms. If there are serious allegations involving torture, ill-treatment, harassment, sexual assault or wrongful dismissal, they must be investigated on the basis of concrete evidence, and lawful action must be taken against those responsible.

Allegations involving the misuse of public resources or improper financing must be investigated on the basis of evidence and in accordance with the principles of a fair trial. The public’s right to information must be respected; however, no one should be declared guilty before a final judicial ruling has been issued.

For this reason, no political organization should be considered exempt from democratic oversight or legal accountability. Economic or political interests must not be allowed to take precedence over the public interest.

The mindset of “What will we do if they speak out?” has no place in democratic governance. Instead of attributing allegations to foreign powers or anonymous social-media accounts, concrete information and evidence should be presented.

Concerns about the future affect not only those facing allegations, but everyone whose rights may be violated. Therefore, the presumption of innocence must be protected. Decrees issued under the KHK system and similar measures should be reconsidered with individual responsibility and the right to an effective remedy taken into account. The same legal standards must apply to everyone, whether close to or distant from those in power. Integrity, transparency and accountability in public administration must be strengthened.

Have you ever questioned these matters? The Grand National Assembly of Türkiye should investigate these allegations, establish parliamentary commissions where necessary, and regularly inform the public.

Allegations that certain companies or groups have received preferential treatment should be examined, and independent audits should determine whether any public loss has occurred. A system in which the economic burden is not shared fairly cannot be sustained. Every spring has its winter, and every winter has its spring.

Statements invoking “religion, the homeland, the flag and external threats” cannot be used to justify restricting fundamental rights and freedoms or postponing accountability.

Return to the rule of law. To restore social peace, acknowledge claims of victimization, apologize where necessary, and establish mechanisms for remedy and restitution. Visiting cemeteries can also serve as a meaningful reminder of the temporary nature of life and the responsibilities that come with public office. Political struggle must remain within the boundaries of law and morality.

When the legal and moral principles that hold society together lose their force, trust in the justice system declines and the principle of merit is weakened, the fight against crime also becomes more difficult. Restoring public trust requires stronger independent courts, transparent government, effective oversight and equal citizenship. Power must never mean that anything is permissible.

A governing mentality that persists in past practices cannot move toward a new and fairer path. Responsibility for the injustices people claim to have suffered must be established through independent investigations and judicial processes; no one should be allowed to evade accountability.

I say this sincerely:

Be just.

October 3, 2026

Kemal Albayrak