Photos have surfaced online showing a ruling party MP hosting the main suspect in a high-profile child murder case in the Turkish Parliament, sparking widespread outrage and accusations of a political cover-up.
The Justice and Development Party (AKP) MP, Galip Ensarioğlu, was already under intense scrutiny after stating, “there are things we know but do not say,” in reference to his relationship with the Güran family, to which the suspect belongs. Kurdish groups have called for Ensarioğlu to testify in the investigation, accusing him of withholding crucial information and suggesting that his ties to the family may have compromised the case.
The image, which circulated online, shows Ensarioğlu sharing tea with Salim Güran, the uncle of eight-year-old Narin Güran, in the Parliament building on 27 December 2023. Salim Güran, a village headman, was arrested after being implicated in his niece’s murder when another suspect confessed to burying her body at his request. Narin had gone missing in August 2024, and her body was discovered 19 days later in a creek near Diyarbakır (Amed).
The photo, confirmed by Ensarioğlu’s own social media post, has heightened the controversy surrounding his involvement. In the post, Ensarioğlu mentioned hosting several local officials, including Güran, in the Grand National Assembly, which has led to questions about the MP’s relationship with the family and its potential impact on the murder investigation.
Kurdish groups have condemned Ensarioğlu’s actions, with the Democratic Regions Party (DBP) accusing the AKP MP of playing a role in a political cover-up. “Those who form dirty alliances are responsible for Narin’s death,” said DBP Co-chair Çiğdem Kılıçgün Uçar. The DBP has also announced plans to file a criminal complaint against Ensarioğlu.
Salim Güran, was arrested after a man named Nevzat B. confessed to burying Narin’s body for 200,000 TL at Salim’s request. Suspicions that the body was moved after initial searches have fuelled further speculation about political interference, particularly given the involvement of local religious groups.
Despite denying any wrongdoing, Ensarioğlu’s comments and his close ties to the Güran family have intensified calls for transparency, with Kurdish groups demanding a thorough investigation into his role in the case. They continue to push for accountability, fearing that the investigation has been compromised by political connections and alliances.
