Exclusive Interview with Municipality Worker: Our Livelihood is at Stake!
Murat Koç, who worked at the Marmaris Municipality in Muğla, was unfairly dismissed after being subjected to exile and mobbing. He approached CHP leader Özgür Özel, who visited Muğla the other day, to share his troubles. However, he was forcibly removed by the municipal police. Speaking to SABAH, Koç stated that he has initiated a legal battle and expressed his grievances by saying, “We are only trying to make a living with our hard work. Our livelihood is being tampered with.”
Murat Koç, who started working at Marmaris Municipality in 2019, was involved in park and garden maintenance, cleaning, and chauffeuring duties. He diligently performed his duties at every level of the municipality until the shock of his life came with the election of Acar Ünlü administration in the March 31, 2024 elections.
Having been subjected to mobbing, Koç collected garbage for a period without regard for working hours. Despite continuing his struggle during this period, he was dismissed from his job on August 20, even though he worked tirelessly without considering working hours. With no other source of income, Koç has initiated legal action.
REMOVED BY FORCE
Wanting to make his voice heard by the authorities, Koç tried to share his troubles with CHP Chairman Özgür Özel, who visited Marmaris for the opening of a public cafe the other day. However, before he could convey his grievances while greeting Özgür Özel, he was forcibly removed from the area without being allowed to speak. Özel, on the other hand, merely watched the incident unfold.
THEY PLAYED WITH OUR LIVELIHOOD, LEAVING ME AND MY FAMILY IN LIMBO
Murat Koç, a 51-year-old father of three, left stranded with his family, said, “For the past 5 years, I have faithfully fulfilled my duties at every level of Marmaris Municipality. However, after Mayor Acar Ünlü took office, I faced unprecedented mobbing and exile. Despite all of this, I continued to perform my duties.
I collected garbage day and night to support my family. Despite this, I was fired on August 20. I am left in limbo with my wife and three children. I cannot pay my rent. I appeal to the authorities. Hear the voice of the workers, the laborers. We are simply trying to make a living with our hard work. Our livelihood is being tampered with.”
Unjust Treatment and Dismissal
The case of Murat Koç sheds light on the unjust treatment and dismissals that many municipality workers face in Turkey. It raises concerns about the lack of job security and fair labor practices within local governments. The story of Koç serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of workers in precarious employment situations.
Legal Battle and Advocacy
Koç’s decision to initiate a legal battle showcases his determination to seek justice and protect his rights as a worker. It highlights the importance of legal advocacy in cases of unfair dismissals and workplace harassment. His courage to stand up against injustice sets an example for other workers facing similar challenges.
Support for Workers’ Rights
The plight of Murat Koç calls for greater support for workers’ rights and protections in the workplace. It emphasizes the need for stronger labor laws and enforcement mechanisms to prevent abuses of power by employers. Koç’s struggle is a rallying cry for solidarity and collective action to ensure fair treatment and respect for all workers.
