Scandals Uncovered at Izmir Metropolitan Municipality: Lavish Spending with IZFAS Money!
In a recent investigation by the auditors of the Court of Accounts, the operations and transactions of Izmir Metropolitan Municipality’s exhibition company, IZFAS, for the year 2023 have been scrutinized. The findings of the audit have shed light on how the funds of the people of Izmir were squandered. It was revealed that an individual who was not a company employee stayed at a hotel and charged drinks and meals to IZFAS’s credit card. But the revelations did not stop there. It was discovered that the expenses of Izmir Metropolitan Municipality’s Chief Advisor, Onur Kadir Eryüce, were being covered by IZFAS in violation of regulations. The auditor highlighted in the report that the payment of the Chief Advisor’s expenses by the company was against the law.
The audits conducted by the Court of Accounts for the year 2023 have also exposed the financial difficulties that the company has been facing.
DEBTS HAVE INCREASED BY 116% COMPARED TO THE PREVIOUS YEAR
The auditor’s report pointed out that IZFAS’s debts had increased by 116% in 2023 compared to the previous year. The report emphasized that while the company’s debts were rising, only 3% of its receivables were collected in 2023.
The auditor, who reported that the company was in serious cash flow problems, stated in the conclusion section of the report that IZFAS had a net loss of 151,110,107.26 TL in 2023, and accumulated losses from previous years amounted to 95,811,734.09 TL.
SPECIAL EXPENSES FOR THE CHIEF ADVISOR
The report highlighted that the payment of expenses for Izmir Metropolitan Municipality’s Chief Advisor, Onur Kadir Eryüce, by the company was against the regulations.
ADVISOR’S EXPENSES COVERED BY THE COMPANY
The report revealed that “O.K.E., one of the chief advisors of the Metropolitan Municipality, incurred expenses amounting to 199,002 TL for domestic and international trips, and these expenses were covered by IZFAS.
The auditor also mentioned that the same individual had incurred expenses of 127,353.91 for travel from the company’s accounts and that a rented vehicle had been allocated to the advisor, with the fuel costs also being paid by IZFAS. In the conclusion of the report, the auditor stated, “In this context, a total of 1,002.48 liters of fuel costs and a vehicle rental fee of 216,639.00 TL for 2023 were paid by the company. Expenses that are not related to the company’s activities should not be covered by company funds.”
Financial Mismanagement and Accountability Issues
The scandals surrounding Izmir Metropolitan Municipality’s exhibition company, IZFAS, have raised serious concerns about financial mismanagement and accountability within the organization. The findings of the audit have highlighted a series of questionable expenses and payments made by the company, pointing to a lack of proper oversight and control mechanisms.
The revelation that an individual not employed by the company was able to charge personal expenses to IZFAS’s credit card raises questions about the company’s internal controls and financial monitoring procedures. It also underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
The payment of the Chief Advisor’s expenses by IZFAS, in violation of regulations, further underscores the lack of accountability and oversight within the organization. Such practices not only raise ethical concerns but also point to systemic issues in the governance and financial management of Izmir Metropolitan Municipality.
Implications for Public Trust and Good Governance
The scandals at Izmir Metropolitan Municipality have significant implications for public trust and good governance. The misuse of public funds and the lack of accountability in the management of IZFAS’s finances erode the trust of citizens in their elected officials and public institutions.
The revelations of lavish spending and unauthorized payments further highlight the need for greater transparency, oversight, and accountability in the management of public funds. It is essential for public officials and organizations to adhere to strict ethical standards and financial regulations to maintain the public’s trust and confidence.
In conclusion, the scandals at Izmir Metropolitan Municipality’s exhibition company, IZFAS, underscore the importance of upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in the management of public funds. It is crucial for public officials and organizations to act in the best interests of the public and ensure that taxpayer money is spent responsibly and in accordance with the law.
