Melih Gökçek is one of the most prominent yet controversial figures in modern Turkish politics. Best known for his long tenure as the Mayor of Ankara, Gökçek’s career has been marked by both significant achievements and heated debates. His outspoken personality, bold urban projects, and frequent clashes with political opponents have kept him in the spotlight for decades.
Early Life and Political Rise
İbrahim Melih Gökçek was born on October 20, 1948, in Keçiören, Ankara. After completing his education, he entered public service and gradually made his way into politics. Gökçek’s first major step came in the 1980s, when he became active in municipal administration. His early work in social and political organizations helped him build a strong grassroots following.
In 1991, he entered parliament as a deputy for Ankara under the Welfare Party (Refah Partisi). Just a few years later, in 1994, he made history by being elected the Mayor of Ankara, a position he would hold for over two decades.
A Record-Setting Mayoral Career
Melih Gökçek’s tenure as the Mayor of Ankara lasted from 1994 to 2017, making him one of the longest-serving mayors in Turkey’s history. Over this period, he was re-elected multiple times under different political parties, including the Welfare Party, Virtue Party, and later the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP).
During his leadership, Gökçek launched numerous infrastructure and urban transformation projects. He expanded Ankara’s road networks, introduced large-scale parks, and promoted modernization efforts that reshaped the city’s image. His notable projects included the Ankapark amusement park and the creation of vast green spaces such as Göksu Park.
Supporters credit him for modernizing Ankara, improving transportation, and developing new residential and commercial areas. His vision, they argue, gave the capital a more vibrant identity.
The Controversies
While his contributions to Ankara’s development are acknowledged, Melih Gökçek’s career has been equally defined by controversies. Critics accused him of mismanaging public funds, prioritizing extravagant projects over essential services, and engaging in political favoritism.
One of the most debated issues was the costly Ankapark project, which faced delays, financial difficulties, and criticism over its relevance to the city’s needs. Additionally, his frequent confrontations with journalists, opposition figures, and even fellow politicians made him a polarizing figure in Turkish politics.
Gökçek’s outspoken use of social media, particularly Twitter, often stirred public debate. His sharp comments and bold accusations gained him attention but also drew backlash from critics who labeled him as divisive.
Resignation and Later Years
In October 2017, under pressure from the ruling AKP leadership, Melih Gökçek resigned as the Mayor of Ankara. His departure marked the end of an era in the city’s politics, as he had been at the helm for over 23 years.
Since then, he has remained active in public debates, frequently sharing opinions on political developments through television appearances and social media platforms. Though no longer holding official office, Gökçek continues to influence Turkish political discourse.
Legacy
Melih Gökçek’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. To his supporters, he is remembered as a visionary leader who transformed Ankara into a modern capital with ambitious projects. To his critics, however, he symbolizes political excess, controversial spending, and divisive rhetoric.
Regardless of where one stands, there is no denying that Gökçek left an indelible mark on Ankara and Turkish politics. His career reflects both the challenges and opportunities of long-term political leadership in a rapidly changing society.