PM Üstel: “Our Concern Is Not Favoritism, and It Never Will Be”

In a written statement shared via social media, Üstel addressed the controversy surrounding his comment: “For young people who pass the written exam, we will give all the support we can during the oral exam alongside our President.” He said this sentence had been taken out of context and presented as implying favoritism.

Misrepresentation on Social Media

Üstel noted, “Recently, a single sentence from my speech was distorted and circulated in the media as if we implied favoritism. What we actually said was: ‘For young people who pass the written exam, we will support them during the oral exam alongside our President.’ But this was twisted to suggest undue influence.”

He continued, “Let me be clear: our concern is not favoritism, and it never will be. Our concern is keeping our youth motivated and protecting their hard work. We spoke of supporting our children so they can express themselves confidently during the oral exams—and even that was misrepresented.”

Protecting the Hopes of Youth

Üstel further stated: “We will never allow anyone to undermine the achievements of our children. We will not give a chance to those who try to shatter their hopes. We are here to ensure that no child says, ‘There is no justice or future in this country.’ I ask those who try to lecture us today: During your years in power, what did you do to ensure merit prevailed?”

He stressed that alongside President Ersin Tatar, the government’s focus is on youth and the country’s future. “In our understanding, favoritism has no place, and no one without merit will secure a job. But we will never allow attitudes that break our youth’s hopes or make them feel there is no future.”

Commitment to Transparency and Merit

The Prime Minister underscored that the Public Service Commission is an independent institution and will not be politicized. He said, “We will not allow public trust to be shaken. Our priority is the confidence of our citizens. We are here to serve, not to rule. No one can steal the efforts of our people’s children. We will uphold merit and establish justice. I believe the public will show in the ballot box on October 19 who only talks, who acts, and who truly stands with the youth.”