18.07.2026 21:30
Ardahan Governor Mehmet Fatih Çiçekli, who faced harsh criticism from the opposition due to the tights he wore while cycling and became known publicly as the "governor in tights," was dismissed by a decree signed by President Erdoğan. Breaking his silence after the dismissal, he said, "Keep pedaling. I am a sailor, rower, and cyclist." The latest footage of Çiçekli rowing on Lake Çıldır before the decision was revealed.
The images of Ardahan Governor Mehmet Fatih Çiçekli, who became the target of criticism in the Turkish Grand National Assembly for wearing tights while cycling and was later dismissed by President Erdogan's decision, have emerged from just before his removal. Breaking his silence after the decision, Governor Çiçekli said, “I keep pedaling. I am a sailing and rowing athlete. I am a cyclist.” The images of him rowing on Lake Çıldır garnered great attention on social media.
ROWING IN THE MAGNIFICENT NATURE OF LAKE ÇILDIR
In the images, Governor Mehmet Fatih Çiçekli is seen taking rowing training on the magnificent blue waters of Lake Çıldır during the summer months, which captivates viewers with its frozen appearance in winter. Rowing alongside professional athletes in a landscape where snowy mountains and lush greenery blend, Çiçekli expresses his admiration for the lake's beauty.
"SOMETIMES I FORGET TO ROW BECAUSE OF THE SCENERY"
While the video emphasizes the unifying power of sports, the excitement felt by Governor Çiçekli while rowing is captured on camera. Çiçekli describes his experience on Lake Çıldır with these words:
"Just imagine, I am rowing but also watching the scenery. I look to my left; the snow is still there, and the surroundings are completely green. It combines with that incredible blue of Çıldır, presenting you with the picture you drew as a child. I sometimes forgot to row, lost in the view."
ROWING TIPS FROM THE COACH TO THE GOVERNOR
The images also include moments where the rowing coach accompanying Governor Çiçekli gives tips to avoid getting too tired. The enjoyable moments when the coach instructs the Governor, saying, "When you pull the load with your foot and back, keep your arms straight. Otherwise, your arms will get very tired. Bent arms will exhaust you. When pushing with your legs, arms straight; once the legs are done, bend your arms outward," have become among the most talked-about videos following the dismissal decision.