Dortmund: Lottery winner Chico announces mayoral candidacy

Kürsat Yildirim, known as ‘Chico’, a lottery winner who won approximately 9.9 million euros in 2022, has announced intentions to run as an independent candidate for Lord Mayor of Dortmund.

His platform focuses on two primary pillars: public safety and social support. Regarding security, Yildirim advocates for stricter measures against street crime, specifically targeting illegal knife possession. While acknowledging that a mayor cannot unilaterally change criminal law, he intends to utilize municipal tools such as urban security concepts, prevention programs, and increased cooperation with law enforcement.

On the social front, Yildirim aims to expand assistance for vulnerable populations, including the homeless and those struggling with addiction. He also proposes creating more meeting points for youth and improving urban cleanliness and infrastructure, such as addressing long-term construction sites.