Minister Şimşek Rejects Accusations, Defends MASAK’s Independence in Data Sharing

Treasury and Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek publicly responded to recent accusations by main opposition leader Özgür Özel, stating that the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) acted independently and in full compliance with the law.

In a post on his official X account, Şimşek said that MASAK shared requested data directly with the Prosecutor’s Office, without approval or directives from any political authority.

“According to the binding provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code regarding the confidentiality of investigations, MASAK provides data requested by the prosecution directly and independently,”
Şimşek wrote.

'No Political Involvement in Technical Reports'

Şimşek emphasized that the MASAK document in question was a technical file containing raw data only, and did not include any analytical opinions or interpretations.

“The document mentioned by Mr. Özel is a purely technical report. It contains data, not conclusions,”
he clarified, adding that all reports prepared by MASAK experts, regardless of title, carry equal legal value.

'A Direct Attempt at Character Assassination'

Calling the accusations against him baseless and defamatory, Şimşek accused the CHP leader of engaging in a “character assassination under the guise of political criticism.”

“Despite numerous clarifications, Mr. Özel’s ongoing statements directed at me are a clear attack on my personal reputation. Such behavior is not befitting of political discourse,”
Şimşek said, urging the opposition to adopt a more respectful tone.