Bülent Arınç responds to criticism over wedding speech

Former Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, Bülent Arınç, has issued a sharp response to critics following a controversial speech delivered at the wedding of Ahmet Davutoğlu’s child.

Arınç’s remarks, which included criticisms of former Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Melih Gökçek, sparked backlash from within the AK Party and from officials such as Presidential advisor Oktay Saral. Fatih Mayor Ergün Turan also characterized the political remarks during the ceremony as impolite.

In a social media statement, Arınç defended his comments, claiming they were taken out of context by “purposeful and malicious” individuals. He emphasized his long-standing loyalty to President Erdoğan and the AK Party, stating that he has always viewed the party as his home. Arınç also criticized his detractors, describing some as lacking “morality and dignity,” while expressing gratitude to Mayor Turan for his polite remarks during the event.