Ahead of local elections in Turkey’s Kurdish-majority southeastern province of Mardin (Mêrdîn), Ahmet Türk, co-mayoral candidate for the People’s Equality and Democracy Party (DEM), has promised transparent governance, pointing to allegations of corruption under the current government-appointed mayors.
As the party’s campaign gains momentum in various districts, with candidates engaging directly with rural communities, on Wednesday Türk attended the opening of an election contact office in the Artuklu district and called for unity and success in the upcoming elections.
Türk accepted community concerns regarding Mardin’s government-appointed trustees, criticising corrupt mismanagement and tenure for tarnishing the city’s name.
“We promise you; all our work will be done in public, with the involvement of the public and civil society, to effectively prioritise the needs of Mêrdîn,” he said.
In his speech, Türk outlined the party’s vision for a future based on freedom, equality and peace, with dignity for the Kurdish people and all communities living in the region. He stressed the importance of preparing for public service and building a democratic future that promotes dialogue and cooperation between the various ethnic and religious groups.
The DEM Party’s election campaign is characterised by its grassroots approach, with candidates visiting rural areas to meet voters face-to-face. The party’s co-mayoral candidates are continuing their outreach and expect to gain significant support on 31 March. Their message focuses on reclaiming local governance from the trustee system imposed in Turkey’s Kurdish-majority regions.
This election cycle in Mardin is a pivotal moment for local governance, with the DEM positioning itself as a champion of transparency, inclusiveness, democratic values, and community involvement.
DEM Party candidates also celebrated International Women’s Day during campaign activities on Wednesday.