The Turkish government has launched a sweeping crackdown on opposition voices, with at least 282 people detained between February 14 and 18. This wave of repression has now extended to the business community, as authorities open an investigation into Orhan Turan, President of the Turkish Industry and Business Association (TÜSİAD).
TÜSİAD President Under Investigation
The İstanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office announced an investigation into Orhan Turan, citing remarks he made at TÜSİAD’s General Assembly on February 13. According to the prosecutor’s statement, Turan is accused of “Publicly Disseminating Misleading Information” and “Attempting to Influence a Fair Trial.” The investigation also includes TÜSİAD’s High Advisory Council (YİK) President, Mehmet Ömer Arif Aras. Authorities have ordered both men to appear before prosecutors.
What Led to the Investigation?
TÜSİAD, representing Turkey’s largest businesses, held its General Assembly at a hotel in Beşiktaş, İstanbul, on February 13. During the event, both Turan and Aras criticized the government’s handling of recent legal and political developments.
Turan pointed to controversial arrests and detentions, stating:
“Lieutenants are dismissed for indiscipline, yet in cases that cause public outrage—such as earthquakes, fires, harassment, femicides, and workplace accidents—either the perpetrators are never found, or they are released in a short time.”
Aras echoed these concerns, particularly about the government’s increasing appointment of trustees in place of elected mayors. He also criticized media suppression and the widespread use of pretrial detention, saying:
“These consecutive incidents in such a short time have caused public concern and shaken trust. The deeply rooted issue of pretrial detention becoming the rule rather than the exception has not been resolved, even with legal changes.”
Erdoğan’s Response
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan swiftly reacted to TÜSİAD’s criticisms during a speech at his party’s group meeting. He dismissed the organization’s statements as inappropriate, warning its leadership:
“If you are a business association, you will learn to act like one. You will not incite the public, provoke state institutions, or attempt to pressure the judiciary.”
A Widening Crackdown
This latest move against TÜSİAD leaders highlights the Turkish government’s intensifying efforts to silence critical voices. While the crackdown has primarily targeted opposition politicians, journalists, and activists, the investigation into prominent business figures signals an escalation in government pressure on civil society and economic leaders.
As tensions rise ahead of key elections, the fate of those arrested and investigated remains uncertain, raising serious concerns about the state of democracy and free speech in Turkey.
