Kepez market vendors protest relocation, cite unfair stall allocations

In the Kepez district of Antalya, Turkey, about 106 market vendors refused to set up stalls after the municipality moved the market from a 2,500‑square‑metre site to a new 2,800‑square‑metre area. The vendors said the new plan reduces the size of individual stalls, narrows aisles and adds new sellers, violating long‑standing court rulings that protect their rights.

Vendor representative Hikmet Karaalp argued that the authorities are giving space to outsiders in exchange for bribes and warned that the existing vendors’ rights are being ignored. Long‑time seller Mehmet Aydoğan said, "We are 106 people; we want the same number in the new area," and complained that the layout makes it difficult for customers to shop. Kepez mayor Mesut Kocagöz told the protesters he would discuss the issue with the relevant offices and would work to prevent any further hardship for the vendors.