20.01.2026 12:30
The fact that DEIK President Nail Olpak's sons hold senior and critical positions within the organization has brought back claims that DEIK has strayed from meritocracy and has turned into a "family farm."
Nail Olpak, who has been serving as the President of the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) for approximately 8 years, has faced public debate regarding allegations that he has turned the institution into a "family farm."
FAMILY MEMBERS IN CRITICAL ROLES AT DEIK
According to the allegations, Nail Olpak's son Halil Enes Olpak serves as the President of the Turkey-Angola Business Council and a member of the Executive Board of the Digital Technologies Business Council under the DEIK umbrella. His other son, Muhammet Enes Olpak, serves as a member of the Executive Board of the Saudi Arabia Business Council. The presence of two individuals from the same family in different and strategic positions within DEIK has raised questions about the institution's management structure.
DISCUSSION ON MERIT REIGNITED
This situation has brought back the question of what criteria are used to determine roles within DEIK, while criticisms regarding the institution's "public nature" and representation power have increased. In the corridors, allegations that roles are shaped through family ties are being voiced alongside criticisms of a lack of transparency.
IS HE TARGETING A MINISTRY POSITION?
On the other hand, there are discussions in the corridors that Nail Olpak is aiming for the position of Minister of Trade, currently held by Ömer Bolat, and that he harbors expectations and dreams in this direction.
ISRAEL STATEMENT SPARKED REACTIONS
DEIK President Nail Olpak previously stated regarding the attacks in Gaza, "We have halted our commercial relations due to the situation in Gaza. However, if a lasting peace can be achieved, trade can resume." These remarks drew significant backlash from the public and on social media.