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Cycling-enthusiast governor sacked in Turkey after viral shorts photo
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Mehmet Fatih Cicekli, governor of Ardahan province in eastern Turkey, was dismissed by presidential decree after photos of him wearing cycling shorts during a public event went viral, sparking criticism from politicians.
- Critics, including opposition and ruling party members, argued that Cicekli's attire was inappropriate for a governor and clashed with the conservative cultural norms of Ardahan.
- Cicekli defended his outfit as standard sportswear and highlighted his promotion of sports, youth activities, and bicycle tourism in the province.
- A petition to reinstate Cicekli has gained over 10,000 signatures, with local support demonstrated by cyclists accompanying him during his farewell.
- European Parliament member Nacho Sánchez Amor criticized the backlash as part of an Islamist conservative agenda, expressing support for Cicekli.
