A Turkish governor is sacked over photos in snug cycling shorts. Many want him reinstated
Summary
Mehmet Fatih Cicekli, the governor of Ardahan province in Turkey, was removed from his job after photos of him wearing tight cycling shorts went viral. Some politicians criticized his clothing as inappropriate, while many locals and supporters have campaigned for his return, praising his work promoting sports and tourism.Key Facts
- Mehmet Fatih Cicekli was appointed governor of Ardahan in January by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
- He was dismissed on July 17 by a presidential decree, with no official reason given.
- The dismissal followed criticism from some politicians who said his cycling attire was unsuitable for a governor.
- Critics said cycling tights did not fit the seriousness of the state and were against local cultural norms.
- Cicekli said he was wearing normal sportswear and defended his active lifestyle including sailing, rowing, and cycling.
- A petition in support of Cicekli gathered over 10,000 signatures calling for his reinstatement.
- Local cyclists showed their support by accompanying him as he left Ardahan.
- Some European politicians expressed support for Cicekli and criticized the conservative criticism he faced.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.