In the summer of 2023, Sinem Dedetay, the mayor of Üsküdar, found herself under the spotlight. On July 31, she was arrested, sparking a chain of events that would reshape the local political landscape. Dedetay's arrest was the catalyst for a series of appointments and decisions that would ultimately lead to the current situation.
Following Dedetay's arrest, the Üsküdar Municipal Council had to quickly fill the deputy mayor position. On August 5, 2023, Sibel Tan Şetinkaya was chosen to serve as the new deputy mayor. However, this selection was not without controversy. Just over a month later, on August 28, a court decision suspended the selection, leaving the position vacant once again.
After the court decision, the council had to reconsider the deputy mayor position. On September 8, 2023, Dündar Ziya Gültekin was selected to fill the vacancy.
The decision was made to hold the election, recognizing the importance of the deputy mayor's role in the day-to-day operations of the municipality.
On October 15, 2026, Dündar Ziya Gültekin's life was cut short in a traffic accident. The sudden loss of a public figure in a densely populated district like Üsküdar sent shockwaves through the community. The news of his death was met with a mix of grief and concern over the immediate impact on local governance.
In the wake of Gültekin's passing, the Üsküdar Municipal Council announced that a new election for the deputy mayor position would be held on October 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The council convened to address the vacancy and ensure the continuity of local governance. The decision was made to hold the election, recognizing the importance of the deputy mayor's role in the day-to-day operations of the municipality.
The process of selecting a new deputy mayor is not straightforward. The council must follow a series of legal and procedural steps to ensure a fair and transparent election. Initially, Sibel Tan Şetinkaya was chosen, but the court's decision to annul her selection added an extra layer of complexity. Dündar Ziya Gültekin was eventually selected, and the council now plans to hold another election to honor his memory and fill the vacancy.
The deputy mayor of Üsküdar plays a crucial role in the local governance structure. They assist the mayor in managing the day-to-day operations of the municipality and are often involved in decision-making processes. The new deputy mayor will be expected to step into the shoes of Dündar Ziya Gültekin and continue the work that he had started.
The sudden vacancy in the deputy mayor position has highlighted the importance of continuity in local governance. The election on October 20, 2026, is not just about selecting a new deputy mayor; it is about ensuring that the day-to-day operations of the municipality continue without disruption. The community of Üsküdar is closely watching the process, hoping for a smooth transition and a capable leader to take over.