Mehmet Fatih Cicekli, the governor of Ardahan province in eastern Turkey, was removed from his position on July 17 following controversy over photos of him wearing cycling shorts during a public event. The dismissal, enacted by a presidential decree signed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, did not include an official explanation. The governor’s attire and social media posts sparked criticism from politicians, who questioned the appropriateness of his dress and conduct while in office.

Opposition figures voiced strong disapproval of Cicekli’s choice to wear tight cycling gear publicly. Inan Akgun Alp, a member of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), accused Cicekli of neglecting his official responsibilities in favor of social media promotion. Alp described the governor’s behavior as unprofessional and incompatible with the dignity expected of a provincial governor. “He goes around in tights, spends all day cycling, with bodyguards in front of him, cycling in tights until the evening,” Alp said during a recent parliamentary debate.

Criticism also came from within President Erdogan’s Justice and Development Party (AKP). Samil Tayyar, a former AKP legislator, argued that the governor’s sports attire was inappropriate in the culturally conservative and traditional environment of Ardahan. Tayyar noted that while casual clothing like sweatpants might be acceptable for other officials during athletic activities, wearing tight cycling shorts in an official capacity undermined the seriousness of the state and clashed with local social norms.

Cicekli, who had been appointed governor in January, defended his attire by stating that it was standard sportswear for cycling and that his athletic interests include sailing, rowing, and cycling. He emphasized his commitment to promoting sports and youth activities in the region, presenting his efforts as part of a broader engagement with the community.

Following his dismissal, a petition calling for Cicekli’s reinstatement gained momentum, attracting over 10,000 signatures. Supporters highlighted his work in Ardahan, including initiatives to enhance bicycle tourism and encourage healthy lifestyles among residents. Local cyclists accompanied his departure from the province, signaling public support despite the controversy.

The response drew attention beyond Turkey’s borders. Nacho Sánchez Amor, a member of the European Parliament from Spain and rapporteur on Turkey, expressed support for Cicekli. He criticized Alp’s comments as promoting an Islamist conservative agenda aligned with the ruling party’s platform.

Cicekli’s removal and the ensuing debate reflect ongoing tensions in Turkey over cultural norms, political expectations, and the role of social media in public life. Ardahan, a province bordering Armenia and Georgia, continues to navigate these broader societal dynamics amid shifting local leadership.