Ramadan Begins in Beykoz: “We Need More Unity and Solidarity Than Ever”

Ramadan Celebration Kicks Off in Beykoz

Beykoz Municipality's Ramadan program began with a highly attended iftar event at the Beykoz Coastal Event Area. Thousands of local residents gathered to break their fast together, sharing the joy of unity. The event was attended by many notable figures, including CHP Giresun MP Elvan Işık Gezmiş, İBB (Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality) Assembly Deputy Speaker Nuri Arslan, İBB Presidential Advisor Tonguç Çoban, CHP Istanbul Provincial Chairman Özgür Çelik, CHP Beykoz District Chairman Mahir Taştan, Beykoz Vice Mayor Taner Aksu, Municipal Council Members, and representatives from civil society organizations.

Program Started with Sufi Music and Quran Recitation

The program began with a Sufi music performance and Quran recitation. Speaking to the attendees, Beykoz Vice Mayor Taner Aksu conveyed the greetings of Mayor Köseler, emphasizing the importance of the spirit of Ramadan. "We need the spirit of peace, justice, and solidarity more than ever. We will continue to stand by justice and truth, working to make this a Ramadan of brotherhood in Beykoz," he said.

Mayor Köseler’s Message: A Call for Unity and Solidarity

After the iftar, Taner Aksu read a message from Mayor Köseler. The Mayor’s message focused on the themes of peace, justice, and solidarity, stating, “We know that recent events have deeply affected all of us. However, we will continue to stand by justice and truth. My greatest wish is to have a Ramadan filled with brotherhood, where we strengthen our neighborhood bonds. I hope this Ramadan brings peace, health, happiness, and blessings to everyone, and may all of our prayers be accepted.”

CHP Istanbul Provincial Chairman Calls for Justice

Following Taner Aksu’s speech, CHP Istanbul Provincial Chairman Özgür Çelik addressed the crowd. He began by wishing for the acceptance of all Ramadan fasts, then highlighted the importance of Ramadan as a time for both charity and justice. “Ramadan is not only a time to fast, but a time to understand the hardships of the poor and the hungry. It is also a time to stand with those who seek justice. We are here for Mayor Köseler, and we will continue to stand by him,” said Çelik.

He also shared the story of Mayor Köseler’s recent detention, stating, "Beykoz Mayor Alaattin Köseler has been unjustly detained. We stand for justice, and we demand answers for why this happened." His speech reflected a call for solidarity and fairness, encouraging unity in the face of injustice.

The Program Concluded with a Prayer

After Chairman Çelik’s speech, the program concluded with a collective prayer for peace and prosperity during Ramadan.