Investigation of Ebubekir Sofuoğlu: Latest News in Turkey
SAU Professor Faces Disciplinary and Criminal Investigations over Social Media Posts
A disciplinary and criminal investigation has been launched against Professor Dr. Ebubekir Sofuoğlu by the Sakarya University (SAU) Rectorate over social media posts targeting AK Party officials. The posts in question targeted Family Minister Derya Yanık, AK Party Sakarya Deputy Çiğdem Erdoğan, and AK Party Group Deputy Chairman Özlem Zengin.
The SAU Rectorate issued a statement regarding the investigation, stating that Professor Dr. Sofuoğlu’s remarks were unacceptable and violated the university’s code of conduct. The statement further added that disciplinary and criminal investigations were initiated against the professor.
Professor Dr. Sofuoğlu made the offending remarks on his personal Twitter account on April 11, 2023. The post included the words, “No matter where they are on the list, even if they are wrapped in the cover of the Kaaba, they will wait until hell gets cold until it gets cold.”
The incident took place after Zengin’s statement regarding the Law No. 6284, which came to the agenda during alliance negotiations between the AK Party and the Welfare Party Again. Sofuoğlu shared a photo of Zengin, Yanık, and Erdoğan on his social media account, along with threatening words, which Zengin described as a threat. She also emphasized that women built the AK Party and there would be no stepping back from women’s rights.
The SAU Rectorate’s statement also clarified that the university respects freedom of expression but will not tolerate behavior that violates codes of conduct or ethical norms. The investigation will determine the appropriate actions to be taken against Professor Dr. Sofuoğlu.
The incident highlights the importance of responsible social media usage, especially for high-profile public figures and academics. While freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it should not be used to instigate violence or threaten individuals. The consequences of such behavior can result in disciplinary and criminal action, as seen in the case of Professor Dr. Sofuoğlu.
