RIP MAYOR FERDI ZEYREK
Town says goodbye to mayor following passing; sympathies expressed widely
A solemn farewell ceremony took place in the western city of Manisa on June 10 for the late Mayor Ferdi Zeyrek, who tragically lost his life due to an electric shock, as mourning poured in from all corners of the political world.
On June 6, the CHP opposition party's leader met his unfortunate end while inspecting an issue at his home's swimming pool, which had gone awry mechanically.
The 48-year-old man suffered an electric shock. Immediately, he collapsed and fell into cardiac arrest, but medical personnel worked tirelessly to resuscitate him after several minutes. Yet, despite three days of intense medical care, his heart repeatedly stopped, and he passed away on June 9.
CHP party leader Özgür Özel, visibly emotional, spoke at the funeral, lamenting, "This is the hardest speech I've ever had to deliver. I've stood on podiums, held microphones since I was six. But this ... This speech is unlike any other."
Özel continued, "Our burden grows heavier by the minute. He entrusted Manisa to us, and now he's gone. I don't know what we'll do. When he was here, I had no doubts. But now that he's gone, I have no idea what our next steps should be."
Zeyrek achieved a historic feat in the 2024 local elections as the first CHP mayor elected in Manisa in 74 years, an accomplishment Özel described during the funeral as a veritable miracle.
The ceremony following the service took place in front of the Manisa Municipality building, with Zeyrek laid to rest in the city's family cemetery alongside his family.
Politicians from across the political spectrum offered messages of condolence as Zeyrek's passing sent ripples of shock and sorrow through his party and far beyond.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan acknowledged the loss with a heartfelt message, stating, "I extend my condolences to his family, colleagues, the citizens of Manisa, and the CHP organization."
The Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli shared his grief, affirming, "I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family, friends, and the CHP."
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who leads the Socialist International, paid tribute to Zeyrek's public service. "Mayor Zeyrek was a dedicated public servant who inspired countless others with his dedication to the community and unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and social progress," he said.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Zeyrek's death continues, with the Manisa Chief Public Prosecutor's Office examining possible negligence. The community and political figures await the findings of the probe, which could potentially pinpoint any technical issues or human error in the tragic accident.
Unofficial reports suggest that an expert report indicates Zeyrekmay have been exposed to an electric current for up to five minutes, which may have contributed to his unfortunate demise.
The sudden death of Mayor Ferdi Zeyrek has sent shockwaves beyond the political world, sparking general-news headlines and expressions of condolence from global leaders. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez recognized Zeyrek's significant contribution to public service, praising his commitment to justice, equality, and social progress.
