Ruhtan Başkaya expelled from CHP after detention in China

Ruhtan Başkaya, a municipal council member for the Republican People's Party (CHP) in Fethiye, has been expelled from the party following his detention in China. Başkaya had traveled to China in July as part of a Fethiye Municipality delegation to attend seminars and inspections in Jinhua, Shanghai, and Huzhou.

Reports indicate that Başkaya was detained by Chinese police after entering a hotel with a young Chinese woman he met at an entertainment venue. Authorities allege the girl was under the age of 18. Başkaya has been in custody for approximately two months while Chinese authorities conduct a legal investigation.

The CHP Muğla Provincial Presidency announced that the Provincial Disciplinary Board has decided on his definitive expulsion from the party based on the ongoing legal proceedings. Social media activity from Başkaya shows his last posts on July 10, featuring photos with local Chinese youths in traditional clothing.