HÜDA PAR Deputy Chairman and Gaziantep MP Şahzade Demir has raised pressing concerns about alleged mismanagement and corruption in Türkiye’s State Theatres during a parliamentary session.

Addressing a question to the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Demir called for a comprehensive review of the institution, citing claims of ideological interference, unqualified appointments, and misuse of public funds.

Demir’s intervention was prompted by recent statements from the former General Director of State Theatres, who alleged that the institution has strayed from its mission under the influence of interest groups and ideological tutelage. The MP pointed to a broader pattern of issues, including favoritism in managerial appointments and inefficiencies in the use of taxpayer money.

In his parliamentary inquiry, Demir highlighted several key allegations:

Politicized Appointments: Claims that managerial roles in the State Theatres are filled based on ideological or personal connections, undermining merit and competence. He cited an incident involving a former Republican People's Party (CHP) minister allegedly pressuring for the appointment of a relative, resulting in the resignation of a general manager.

“ATM Artists”: Allegations that certain artists receive salaries without actively contributing to the institution, with some reportedly living abroad while still on the payroll.

Content Quality and Cultural Disconnect: Concerns about the declining quality of theatrical productions and their perceived disconnection from societal and moral values.

Lack of Transparency: Criticisms of how public funds allocated to the State Theatres are used, suggesting they may perpetuate inefficiency and favoritism rather than fostering artistic growth.

Demir outlined specific questions to the Minister of Culture and Tourism, focusing on:

1-The criteria used for managerial appointments and whether they prioritize merit over political or personal affiliations.

2-Mechanisms to monitor the activities and contributions of artists, particularly those accused of being “ATM artists.” Ministry measures to ensure the artistic and moral quality of productions staged at the State Theatres.

3-Investigations into allegations of corruption, favoritism, and ideological dominance within the institution.

4-Plans for reforms to ensure transparent and accountable use of budgets, aligned with public values.

5-Steps to encourage the production of original and culturally resonant works that reflect the spiritual and moral values of society.

Call for Reform

Demir emphasized the need for a systemic overhaul of the State Theatres, advocating for a structure that prioritizes public values and transparency. “The State Theatres should reflect the values of the people who fund them through taxes. A professional and radical reform is essential to restore their mission of producing meaningful and original works,” Demir stated.

Demir’s parliamentary question reflects broader concerns about cultural governance in Türkiye and the role of public institutions in fostering art that aligns with societal values. His call for reform highlights the importance of ensuring accountability, transparency, and relevance in cultural policies, urging action to address alleged inefficiencies and ideological biases.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism has yet to respond to Demir’s inquiries, but the issue is expected to remain a key point of debate in the Turkish Parliament. (ILKHA)