Silivri Mayor Balcıoğlu Removed; Deputy Mayor Election Set for June 20

Silivri Mayor Bora Balcıoğlu was detained on 15 June 2026 and removed from office on 16 June 2026 after a criminal investigation by the Silivri public prosecutor’s office. He faces accusations of organizing crime, bribery and illicit enrichment. The Istanbul Governor’s Office announced the removal, noting that the Ministry of Interior approved the administrative measure.

Under Turkish municipal law (Law 5393, articles 45 and 47), the Silivri municipal council is scheduled to convene on 20 June 2026 at 10:00 a.m. to elect a mayor‑deputy who will manage the municipality while the legal proceedings continue. The process is being closely observed for its impact on local governance and Istanbul’s broader political dynamics.