The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched a high-profile investigation into alleged financial misconduct involving ₺154 million ($3.7 million) in public losses tied to concert services organized by the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality between 2021 and 2024.

The probe targets the administration of Mayor Mansur Yavaş, a political figure from the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), who has led the municipality since 2019.According to the prosecutor’s office, reports from the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) and other state agencies uncovered significant irregularities in the procurement of 32 concert services during the specified period. The investigation alleges that these transactions resulted in a substantial financial loss for the municipality, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in public spending.

Authorities have issued detention orders for 13 suspects, including senior officials from the municipality’s Department of Culture and Social Affairs and executives of private companies involved in organizing the concerts. The suspects face serious charges, including “misconduct in office” and “rigging public tenders,” which suggest potential corruption or mismanagement in the tendering process.

The Ankara Provincial Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit conducted simultaneous raids to apprehend the suspects, who are now undergoing initial processing. They are expected to be referred to the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office for further questioning and legal proceedings in the coming days.

The investigation has sparked significant political interest, given Mayor Yavaş’s prominence as a leading opposition figure and a potential candidate in future presidential elections. Critics of the CHP-led municipality argue that the probe highlights governance issues, while supporters of Yavaş suggest the investigation could be politically motivated to undermine his reputation ahead of future elections.

The Ankara Metropolitan Municipality has not yet issued an official statement in response to the allegations. As the investigation unfolds, it is expected to intensify scrutiny of municipal spending practices and fuel debates about accountability in Türkiye’s capital.

This developing story continues to draw attention, with potential implications for both local governance and the broader political landscape in Türkiye. (ILKHA)