Politics
💰 Turkish Parliament Gears Up for 2026 Budget & New Economic Measures
The Turkish Parliament is accelerating its economic agenda this week as preparations for the 2026 budget and the first economic package of the new legislative year intensify. Deputy President Cevdet Yılmaz will present the budget to the Parliament’s Plan and Budget Commission on October 23, with discussions continuing through November and final approval expected in December before the fiscal year begins. The Medium-Term Program (2025-2028) anticipates a 29% increase in the 2026 budget to 18.9 trillion TL and a deficit of 2.7 trillion TL. The upcoming economic package is expected to include measures targeting the informal economy, removing ineffective exemptions and incentives, and reducing employer contribution supports. Meanwhile, several legislative proposals, including traffic fines, national parks, and foundations law changes, are also set for parliamentary review.
🕊️ “Commission Should Visit Öcalan, Demirtaş’s Release Would Help the Process,” Says AKP MP Salim Ensarioğlu
AKP Istanbul MP Mehmet Salim Ensarioğlu said that the peace process is progressing well despite regional tensions and suggested that the parliamentary commission should meet Abdullah Öcalan on İmralı Island. Speaking to Medyascope in Diyarbakır, Ensarioğlu emphasized that releasing Selahattin Demirtaş would be a positive step for reconciliation, adding that Turkey should be the “homeland and capital” for Kurds outside its borders. He also underlined the importance of MHP’s participation in the process, expressing optimism that this new phase would lead to lasting peace in Turkey.
⚖️ Mehmet Uçum: Democratic Reforms Cannot Be Made a Precondition of the Transition Process
Presidential Chief Advisor Mehmet Uçum emphasized that Turkey’s current period must be understood as two distinct phases: the “Transition to a Terror-Free Turkey” and the “Democracy Development Process”, which should never be conflated. Uçum argued that the transition process, led by the state, is temporary and legally bounded, focusing on ending terrorism, while democratic development is a long-term, citizen-driven initiative. He stressed that demands related to democratic reforms cannot be imposed as conditions on the transition process, warning that conflating the two could sabotage the legal and operational framework of the transition. Uçum also highlighted that Abdullah Öcalan’s constructive role in the process should be properly understood, and all actors must avoid creating subjective preconditions or engaging in actions that could undermine progress.
CHP Leader Özel’s First European Rally: “We’re Noting Those Silent on the Coup!”
CHP leader Özgür Özel addressed a historic first European rally in Brussels, speaking passionately for jailed Istanbul mayor and presidential candidate Ekrem İmamoğlu. Özel criticized the AKP government for prioritizing deals with foreign powers over Turkey’s interests, highlighting issues such as Eurofighter negotiations and political persecution. He called out both domestic and international actors who remain silent in the face of authoritarian actions, emphasizing the party’s commitment to defending democracy and citizens’ rights. Özel also encouraged the Turkish diaspora and youth across Europe to stay politically active, promising a future of justice, equality, and a Turkey fully integrated into the European Union.
🤝 Surprise Meeting of Özdağ and Dervişoğlu: “Nationalists’ Rule” Slogan Revealed
Zafer Party leader Ümit Özdağ and İYİ Party leader Müsavat Dervişoğlu met at the Milliyetçi Kongre Derneği congress in Ankara to announce the slogan of a potential new opposition alliance: “Nationalists’ Rule”. Özdağ predicted that the current DAM alliance (DEM, AKP, MHP) would lose votes, boosting DEM Party’s strength. Dervişoğlu emphasized that past disagreements would not affect the alliance, stating, “From yesterday to today, we are united.” The meeting signals a possible strategic cooperation within the nationalist political bloc.
🪥 MPs Get a Mouthwash Upgrade in Parliament
During the roughly two-month summer recess, the Turkish Parliament underwent a series of renovations to prepare for the new legislative term. Repairs included fresh paint, new carpets, and updates to the General Assembly’s sound and voting systems. Notably, the women’s restroom in the ruling party’s office was refurbished, drawing some playful remarks about the colorful decor. Meanwhile, in the opposition’s women’s restroom—complete with an ablution area—MPs found a novel addition: an alcohol- and fluoride-free mouthwash dispenser. The new installation was welcomed by female parliamentarians who spend long hours in the assembly.
⚖️ Forensic Report on Rojin Kabaiş: DNA Contamination Possible, Cause of Death Unclear
The Forensic Medicine Institution has concluded its investigation into Rojin Kabaiş, whose body was found in Van Lake on October 15, 2024, after being reported missing on September 27, 2024. The autopsy and analyses confirm that her death resulted from drowning, but whether it was suicide, accident, or due to external factors could not be definitively determined. Male DNA profiles were detected on her body, but experts note these could have resulted from post-mortem contamination through environmental contact, water immersion, or handling during recovery. No signs of assault, violence, or poisoning were found, and no evidence of sexual assault was present. The report emphasizes that while drowning caused her death, the exact circumstances remain medically inconclusive.
💸 Papara Scandal: 40 Million People Linked to Illegal Gambling Network
The indictment against digital finance platform Papara has been finalized, seeking up to 28 years in prison and 50 million TL in fines for founder Ahmet Faruk Karslı. According to the indictment, nearly 40 million people participated in an illegal gambling network spanning Turkey, Northern Cyprus, Armenia, Romania, Poland, Greece, and the UK. MASAK reports reveal a staggering volume of transactions: billions of lira were transferred in minutes between thousands of accounts, converting cash into crypto and moving it across hundreds of wallets and bank accounts. Detailed case examples show young individuals, some under 25, conducting thousands of high-value transfers, highlighting the “dark side” of tech-finance and its role in facilitating large-scale illegal gambling.
⚠️ Surgery and Pediatrics at Risk: Public Health Faces Crisis
Turkey’s healthcare system is signaling a serious alarm as young doctors increasingly avoid critical specialties like surgery, pediatrics, and internal medicine. Recent TUS (Medical Specialization Exam) and Health Ministry assignment results show that a large portion of positions remain unfilled—only 35% of 2,266 specialist posts were taken. Key branches such as surgical oncology, pediatric emergency, pediatric endocrinology, and general surgery saw minimal interest due to heavy workloads, low pay, malpractice risks, and workplace violence. Experts warn that unless urgent measures are taken, finding qualified doctors for surgeries and child care in public hospitals will become extremely difficult, especially in rural areas. Professional organizations highlight that the current trend reflects market-driven health policies and threatens both public health and the long-term sustainability of Turkey’s healthcare system.
🚨 Academic Emrah Gülsunar Detained
Academician and author Dr. Emrah Gülsunar announced via social media that he has been taken into custody. Gülsunar briefly stated, “I am being detained,” but the reason for his detention has not yet been disclosed.
Economy
✈️ Erdoğan Announces Trabzon Airport Tender This Year + 130 Projects Opened
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced at a mass opening ceremony in Trabzon that the tender for the new Trabzon Airport will be held this year, with construction expected to start next year on a sea-based third airport for the city. During the event, Erdoğan also inaugurated 130 projects worth 13.5 billion TL, including healthcare, education, sports, and infrastructure facilities, highlighting the 540 billion TL public investment in Trabzon over the past 23 years. He emphasized Turkey’s regional stability efforts, commented on the Russia-Ukraine war and Gaza humanitarian situation, and reinforced Turkey’s independent stance in foreign policy, while praising national achievements in football and domestic development.
💡 Airport VIPs: Electricity Companies Cash In Millions
Following energy privatizations in Turkey, electricity distribution companies have become major financial beneficiaries, not just of citizens’ bills but also public budgets. A report shows that 18 airports spent nearly 487 million TL on electricity purchases, with Cengiz Elektrik alone receiving 178.2 million TL for Rize-Artvin and Gaziantep airports. Privatization policies since 2004 have led to rising costs and infrastructure challenges, forcing airport administrations to buy energy via expensive tenders. The findings reveal how privatization shifted financial burdens from public utilities to private firms, highlighting the high cost of running airports under the current energy market.
🚗 Turkish Auto Industry Faces Competitiveness Loss Amid Falling Local Production
Turkey’s automotive sector continues to lead in exports, yet domestic localization rates have dropped to record lows. OSD President Cengiz Eroldu highlighted that new customs tariffs on non-EU countries and free trade agreement partners have weakened competitiveness, particularly for internal combustion engine vehicles, with China dominating exports. While overall production rose 3% and exports 6% in the first nine months of 2025, local content in cars fell to 29%, light commercial vehicles to 21%, and trucks to 59%. Eroldu also noted capacity utilization challenges, the impact of high inflation despite stable exchange rates, and the pressure of ÖTV tax changes on pricing, stressing that macroeconomic conditions could threaten ongoing investments even as domestic sales remain strong.
💹 Timothy Ash: “If I Were in the Central Bank, I’d Stay Hawkish”
At the 4th Transforming Leadership Summit in Sapanca, economist and emerging markets expert Timothy Ash shared his perspective on Turkey’s economy and investment climate. He praised recent economic management but criticized the early interest rate cuts, warning that high inflation will persist unless growth is sacrificed. Ash emphasized that he would remain on the hawkish side if he were at the Central Bank, noting that excessive easing risks competitiveness and that political shocks have caused foreign investors to be cautious. He also highlighted challenges for exporters due to the overvalued Turkish Lira and stressed that tackling sticky inflation is critical for long-term economic stability and attracting capital. Despite risks, Ash noted that foreign investors continue to have confidence in Turkey and see opportunities in a challenging global environment.
From Ankara
🏛️ From the Frontline to the Capital: Ankara Becomes the Heart of the Republic
On October 13, 1923, the Turkish Grand National Assembly officially declared Ankara the capital of the new Turkish state, a decision that marked a turning point in the nation’s modern history. Strategically located in the heart of Anatolia, Ankara symbolized independence, security, and a break from the Ottoman past centered in occupied Istanbul. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s leadership and foresight made the city the natural hub of the national resistance during the War of Independence. What began as the temporary headquarters of the National Struggle evolved into the permanent political, administrative, and symbolic center of the Republic. Despite foreign objections, Ankara rapidly transformed into a modern capital, hosting embassies, institutions, and reforms that embodied the spirit of the new Turkey.
🚧 Road Closures in Ankara for the 102nd Capital Anniversary Celebrations
Due to the 102nd Anniversary of Ankara’s Designation as Turkey’s Capital, several roads will be closed to vehicle traffic on Monday, October 13, 2025, starting from 08:30 a.m. until the end of the celebrations. The closure includes Cumhuriyet Avenue (between Baruthane and Ulus intersections) and Çapa Street in both directions. If needed, additional closures will extend to Çankırı Avenue, Atatürk Boulevard (between Osmanlı and Ulus intersections), Anafartalar Avenue, Hisar Park Street, İpek Street, Bedesten Street, Gözcü Street, Kalekapısı Street, and Alitaş Street, as well as all connecting roads along the parade route.
Authorities advise drivers to plan alternate routes and thank the public for their understanding.
Personal note: Once a modest Anatolian town, Ankara has grown into the beating heart of a modern republic, a living testament to the vision of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the spirit of the Turkish people.
💫 Long live Ankara — the capital of courage, Turkish culture, and progress!
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