Cemil Tugay resigns from Atatürkçü Düşünce Derneği membership

Izmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Cemil Tugay has terminated his membership with the Karşıyaka branch of the Atatürkçü Düşünce Derneği (ADD). The decision, made via the e-Devlet platform, follows Tugay's previous resignation from the Republican People's Party (CHP), after which he has been serving as an independent mayor.

Tugay addressed public criticism regarding the move, stating that his departure was due to an inability to participate in association activities and disagreements with its management. He emphasized that his love and respect for Mustafa Kemal Atatürk cannot be measured by association membership, stating, “No one can erase the love and respect I have for Atatürk and no one has asked me to do such a thing.”

The resignation has sparked political speculation following a recent meeting between Tugay and President Erdoğan on September 30. While rumors suggest Tugay may join the Justice and Development Party (AKP) in late October, Tugay has maintained that his primary focus remains resolving the issues facing Izmir.