Former Minister Fatma Betül Sayan Kaya Resigns from AK Party Posts Amid Stock Trade Allegations

AK Party Deputy Chair and former Family Minister Fatma Betül Sayan Kaya resigned from all party positions on September 26, citing the need for an independent investigation into stock trading allegations. She stated the decision was driven by political and conscientious responsibility, referencing President Erdoğan's call for a thorough probe regardless of identity.

Party spokesperson Zeynel Emre alleged Kaya bought 250,000 shares at 255 lira on April 8 and sold them in September at roughly 4,482 lira, turning a 63 million lira investment into approximately 1.3 billion lira. Reports claim both Kaya and her husband İlyas Kaya sold shares shortly before the market turmoil erupted.

“The duty we carry in politics is not limited to legal responsibility; it requires assuming political and conscientious responsibility when necessary.”

Kaya has remained silent on the specific allegations beyond her resignation statement, telling journalists she was "not available" for comment. The controversy has reignited scrutiny of her tenure as minister, including a 2016 legislative proposal critics labeled an "amnesty for rapists" and past controversies over municipal scholarships and family appointments.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently emphasized that all allegations must be investigated transparently, "whoever they may concern." Kaya's resignation letter echoed this stance, requesting leave from her duties to ensure the process proceeds without shadow over her office.