This move signals a new chapter in the organization's leadership and sets the stage for a series of upcoming decisions that will impact thousands of municipalities across the country.
On October 15, 2026, Vahap Seçer, the mayor of Mersin, was removed from his position. This development triggered a series of events that led to the TBB's decision to hold an election for a new vice president. The election was seen as a critical moment for the organization, as it would set the tone for the coming years and influence the direction of local governance in Turkey.
The election for the TBB vice president was a multi-round affair, with Ayşe Ünlüce from Eskişehir Belediye emerging victorious. The process began on October 15, 2026, with 863 members participating in the election. The first round saw Ayşe Ünlüce receive 409 votes, while Tahir Büyükakın, the candidate from Kocaeli Belediye, garnered 369 votes. The second round saw a shift in the dynamics, with Ayşe Ünlüce receiving 403 votes and Tahir Büyükakın securing 385 votes. The third and fourth rounds further solidified Ünlüce's position, and she was ultimately declared the winner.
While Ayşe Ünlüce's election was celebrated, it was not without controversy.
In her statement following the election, Ayşe Ünlüce emphasized her commitment to equality and fairness. She stated, 'Belediyelerimiz için, sizler için hiçbir ayrım yapmadan eşit ve adil bir şekilde bu görevi yürüteceğime dair söz veriyorum.' Ünlüce's pledge to serve with equality and fairness resonated with many in the TBB, who saw her as a promising leader for the future.
While Ayşe Ünlüce's election was celebrated, it was not without controversy. She is currently under investigation for corruption allegations related to land use permits in Eskişehir. This has raised questions about the integrity of the election process and the organization's ability to maintain high ethical standards. Mansur Yavaş, a prominent figure in the TBB, expressed support for Ünlüce, saying, 'Hayırlı uğurlu olsun Ayşe Hanım. Ekrem Başkan'ın, Zeydan Başkan'ın ve Vahap Başkan'ın emanetini Ayşe Hanım'a teslim ediyoruz.' Yavaş's statement underscores the trust placed in Ünlüce, despite the ongoing investigations.
The election of Ayşe Ünlüce as the new vice president of the TBB is expected to have a significant impact on local governance in Turkey. The TBB, with its 863 members, plays a crucial role in shaping policies and providing support to municipalities across the country. Ünlüce's election is seen as a step towards greater equality and fairness, and her commitment to these values is likely to influence the organization's future decisions.
As Ayşe Ünlüce takes on her new role, the TBB and the municipalities it serves will be watching closely. The upcoming months will be critical as the organization navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The election of a new vice president marks a new chapter in the TBB's history, and the coming years will be crucial in determining the organization's impact on local governance in Turkey.