Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş, a prominent figure in Turkey’s opposition, is now facing a second investigation authorized by Turkish authorities, deepening existing legal challenges as he continues to lead the capital city. The latest inquiry, announced October 21st and expanded November 22nd to include Yavaş’s chief of staff, focuses on allegations of abuse of office related to zoning decisions in the Gölbaşı district. The move comes as Yavaş and his administration contend with accusations stemming from decisions concerning zoning plans and a response to prior irregularities under the previous administration of Melih Gökçek.
Turkish authorities have authorized a second investigation into Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş, adding to existing legal scrutiny of the prominent opposition figure. The latest probe centers on allegations of abuse of office related to zoning decisions.
INVESTIGATION AUTHORIZED OVER ZONING DISPUTE
The investigation stems from a claim that decisions made by Yavaş and members of the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality council failed to implement rulings by administrative courts regarding zoning plans in the Incek neighborhood of Gölbaşı. According to reports, the Interior Ministry granted permission for the inquiry following the allegations.
The ministry’s decision, made public on October 21, 2025, alleges that the municipality did not act in accordance with the court rulings. The move expands an existing investigation into Yavaş, raising the stakes for the mayor as he navigates a challenging political landscape.
This new authorization brings the total number of investigations permitted against Yavaş to two.
On November 22, 2025, the Interior Ministry also approved an investigation into Yavaş and his chief of staff.
MUNICIPALITY RESPONDS TO ALLEGATIONS
In a written statement, the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality addressed the recent developments, stating:
“Reports have surfaced in some media outlets regarding the authorization of an investigation by the Ministry of Interior into Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş and 39 members of the Metropolitan Municipality Council.
The reality is that this investigation was initiated due to efforts to prevent irregular zoning increases that occurred during the administration of Melih Gökçek.
There have been no irregular zoning increases. On the contrary, the investigation focuses on the decision to veto an irregular zoning increase in the Dodurga region.
Furthermore, there are serious and publicly known allegations regarding the impartiality of the expert involved in the investigation process.
This expert previously participated in other cases where investigation permits were granted against Mansur Yavaş, and it is alleged that he consulted with Melih Gökçek on these matters. Mansur Yavaş previously filed a criminal complaint against this same expert.
It has been confirmed that this same expert is involved in the current case.
All legal objections are being made.
A detailed statement will be shared with the public once the objection process is complete.”
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