Eastern Mediterranean University faces leadership crisis

Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) is facing a management crisis following the proposed removal of Şemi Bora as Chairman of the Board of Trustees (VYK). This follows the dismissal of the previous chairman, Erdal Özcenk, approximately seven months ago.

Regarding the administrative backlog, Bora issued a statement clarifying that 54 motions are currently in process as of September 21, 2026. He addressed allegations of intentional delays, explaining that motions undergo a review process by the VYK Secretariat and are only added to the agenda once they meet regulatory requirements. Bora noted that the increase in pending motions is partly due to several scheduled meetings in July and August 2026 failing to reach a quorum.

The proposal to replace Bora with Anıl İmre has sparked political debate, particularly within the National Unity Party (UBP). Critics and the DAÜ-SEN union have raised concerns regarding the timing of these leadership changes, questioning whether the moves are intended to influence employment and administrative decisions ahead of upcoming election bans.