Presidency Accuses Turkish Journalists of “Unethical Behavior” in Tense Meeting with Ersin Tatar

Presidential Chief of Staff Çağın Zort stated that the journalists, who came from Turkey, initially claimed their visit was a “courtesy call” but instead attempted to conduct an interview, which he described as disrespectful.

Zort explained that the purpose of the visit had been communicated in advance as a brief meeting and a book presentation, but the journalists turned the occasion into an interview by asking political questions. He said this was a breach of respect toward the Presidency.

“They Forced an Interview”
Regarding the meeting with the Turkish journalists, including Nefes reporters Mahmut Aydın and Tarık Işık, Zort said the purpose of the visit had been distorted. He said:
“Mr. Hasan Erçakıca called me to say he would present Yusuf Kanlı’s book and that this would be a courtesy visit. I asked several times if there would be an interview and was clearly told ‘no.’”

Despite this, political questions were raised during the meeting, especially regarding Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu’s revoked diploma and debates about headscarves and secularism. This led to tension, and the meeting ended abruptly with Tatar reportedly saying to those present, “They are coming at me; I’m going to get a headache.”

Journalists: “We Asked Questions, Tatar Cut the Interview Short”
According to Nefes newspaper, the journalists had received permission for filming prior to the meeting. Among the questions asked were those concerning İmamoğlu’s revoked equivalency and headscarf debates. As the atmosphere became tense, Tatar ended the interview and complained about the journalists to others present.

“Such Disrespect Cannot Go Unchallenged”
Zort concluded his statement with strong words:
“This is a state institution. Acting outside the stated purpose of a visit is ill-intentioned. What was done falls outside journalistic ethics. Those who show such disrespect must be prepared for the reactions they will receive.”