Beyoğlu Mayor İnan Güney released after court orders his and five others’ freedom

A Turkish court in Istanbul granted a release order for Beyoğlu Mayor İnan Güney, who had been removed from office and held in detention pending a corruption investigation. The same judgment also ordered the release of five other persons linked to the municipality, including former staff members.

The ruling revives debate over the use of administrative removal under Turkey’s Municipal Law (Article 47) and comes amid a lengthy trial that also involves former Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and dozens of other officials. The probe alleges membership in a criminal organization, bribery, fraud and related offenses. While Güney’s substitute continues to lead the municipal council, the mayor will now face the remaining legal proceedings outside of custody.