In politics, personal relationships and political differences are often confused with one another. Yet loving someone does not require agreeing with all of their political choices.
I have known Veli Ağbaba for many years. We have sat at the same table and shared our bread. In my eyes, he has always been a classy, sincere, and friendly politician. That is why, to be honest, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t saddened by the allegations and suspicions that have been leveled against him recently.
Of course, politics is a public endeavor, and criticism is a natural part of it. However, in recent years—especially with the rise of social media—it has become all too easy to pass judgment on people. An allegation is made, and then, regardless of whether it is true or not, a lynch mob mentality takes hold.
The fact that Veli Ağbaba’s expulsion is being discussed today is also thought-provoking from this perspective. If the allegations are true, appropriate action must be taken; if they are false, people’s reputations must be protected. However, what saddens me is that a figure who has dedicated years to politics has found himself at the center of these debates.
I wish things hadn’t come to this. Because in politics, differences of opinion are temporary, but the friendships and memories people leave behind are lasting.
@veliagbaba @CHPforEveryone