The physical attack on Özgür Özel during the farewell ceremony for Seri Süreyya Önder
During the farewell ceremony for Seri Süreyya Önder at the Atatürk Cultural Center, Özgür Özel, the leader of the Republican People’s Party, was physically assaulted. The attack occurred after the ceremony concluded, when an assailant who identified himself as a descendant of the Ottomans struck Özel with his fist.
Details of the incident and reactions
According to official sources, the assailant, later identified as Selçuk Tengyoğlu, was immediately detained by security forces. The Istanbul Prosecutor’s Office stated that the individual had a criminal record and had been convicted in 2004 for killing his two children. Preliminary investigations also revealed no signs of mental illness in him.
The incident sparked widespread reactions in Turkey’s political sphere. Ömer Çelik, spokesperson for the Justice and Development Party, condemned the attack in a statement, emphasizing that no form of violence against political institutions is acceptable and that the assailant will be held accountable before the law.
Erdoğan’s phone call and political expressions of support
Following the attack, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan contacted Özgür Özel to express his regret and support. Ali Yerlikaya, Turkey’s Interior Minister, also condemned the assault, stressing that the attacker is under interrogation and will face justice. Yılmaz Tunç, the Minister of Justice, stated that a judicial investigation is underway.
Reactions from political parties and politicians.
Numerous political figures reacted to the attack. Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, former leader of the Republican People’s Party, condemned the assault and stated that demonizing opponents deals the greatest blow to the country’s democracy. Additionally, Mansur Yavaş, the Mayor of Ankara, emphasized the necessity of punishing those responsible for the attack.
Özgür Özel’s statements
Following the incident, Özel stated at a press conference that he had been receiving various threats for a long time and described this attack as an attempt to divert society’s attention from more critical issues, including democracy and human rights. He emphasized that such attacks would not deter him and that the Republican People’s Party would continue on its path.
