Melih Meriç stabbed in Gaziantep following political dispute

Political tensions are escalating in Turkey following a stabbing incident involving Yeni Parti Gaziantep Deputy Melih Meriç. According to Meriç’s statement to the Gaziantep Prosecutor's Office, the attack was motivated by a dispute over a local party appointment. Meriç claims that Seydi Ahmet Keleş, a former CHP official who had joined Yeni Parti, sought the Oğuzeli District Presidency but was rejected by Meriç due to perceived inadequacy. The confrontation occurred after Meriç met Keleş at a location provided via mobile phone to address insults directed at him. During the altercation, Meriç was stabbed in the abdomen.

In a separate political conflict, Devrek Municipality has issued a sharp response to criticisms from Yeni Parti regarding local governance and financial management. The municipality defended Mayor Özcan Ulupınar against allegations concerning debt and service delivery, asserting that the administration is focused on work rather than polemics. The municipality dismissed claims of increased debt as manipulated figures and noted that they have undergone official inspector audits to ensure transparency.