27.06.2026 11:15
After a four-year hiatus, Nevşehir Mayor Rasim Arı, who rejoined the AK Party ranks, spoke for the first time following his decision. Stating that there is no change in him except for his political party membership, Arı said, "There is a change in terms of political party membership. Other than that, there is no change in our identity, personality, clothing, attire, attitude, style, or the red flag pin on our lapel."
Nevşehir Mayor Rasim Arı, who resigned from the İYİ Party and returned to the AK Party, from which he had resigned in 2022, with his badge pinned by President Erdoğan, emphasized in his first statement after the party change that his political preference did not change his personality or service approach.
"NO CHANGE IN THE RED FLAG BADGE ON OUR COLLAR"
Arı stated, "There is a change in terms of political party membership. Other than that, there is no change in our identity, personality, clothing, attire, attitude, style, or the red flag badge on our collar."
Expressing that his love for the people of Nevşehir has grown, Arı said, "Our love for the people of this city has increased even more. Because I am a member of a nation that embraces us despite everything. There is nothing more gratifying than this."
"I UNDERSTAND THOSE WHO COMPLAIN, I WILL ALSO WIN THEIR HEARTS"
Addressing citizens who reacted to his decision, Arı stated that he understands the grievances and said, "There may be fellow citizens who are slightly angry, complain, or show resentment. I understand them, they are right. But I will also win their hearts. I set out on this path vowing not to hurt anyone's feelings."
"'OUR RASIM' IS THE SAME RASIM"
Arı, stating that he will continue on his path with the same understanding, said, "Let no one have any doubt or concern that I will continue this journey without hurting anyone's feelings or hearts. The Rasim you believe in, the Rasim you trust and describe as 'Our Rasim,' is the same Rasim."