Governor of Istanbul Responds to Mayor of Sisli
In a recent social media post, Istanbul Governor Ali Yerlikaya expressed his commitment to avoiding political controversies during his tenure as a public servant. However, he felt compelled to respond to the statements made by Sisli Mayor Resul Emrah Şahan, who suggested that the state was failing and that local authorities should be allowed to clean schools. Governor Yerlikaya interpreted these remarks as an attempt to portray the government and its institutions as incompetent.
Governor Yerlikaya highlighted the extensive efforts put into maintaining cleanliness in Istanbul’s 3,963 primary and secondary schools, where a total of 18,465 cleaning personnel are employed. These workers’ salaries and benefits are funded by public resources, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring a clean and hygienic environment for students. Yerlikaya also addressed Şahan’s suggestion that local authorities could provide cleaning services, stating that if they wish to support public services, they can do so through established protocols.
Supporting Public Services Through Collaboration
Yerlikaya emphasized the importance of local authorities focusing on their primary responsibilities before extending support to other public services or students. He mentioned that if municipalities like Sisli want to contribute, they can do so through official channels. Yerlikaya cited examples such as providing cleaning personnel for a select number of schools or offering meal support to a specific number of students. By adhering to established protocols, municipalities can effectively collaborate with the government to enhance public services without resorting to social media stunts.
Moreover, Yerlikaya criticized the trend of using social media as a platform for grandstanding and undermining the hard work of thousands of public servants. He stressed the need for constructive dialogue and collaboration to address challenges effectively, rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric that serves no purpose other than stirring controversy.
Ensuring Accountability and Collaboration
Yerlikaya’s response underscores the importance of accountability and collaboration in governance. By highlighting the government’s efforts to maintain cleanliness in schools and support public services, he aims to dispel any misconceptions about the state’s effectiveness. Yerlikaya’s call for cooperation and adherence to established protocols reflects a commitment to fostering productive partnerships between the government and local authorities for the benefit of the community.
In conclusion, Governor Ali Yerlikaya’s measured response to Mayor Resul Emrah Şahan’s comments serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible governance and collaborative efforts in addressing societal challenges. By emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing essential services and maintaining public institutions, Yerlikaya seeks to promote dialogue and cooperation for the betterment of Istanbul and its residents.
