Survey Reveals Deep Trust Crisis in Privatized Milli Piyango

A recent internal survey conducted by Milli Piyango has confirmed a major loss of public trust following its privatization and transfer to Demirören Holding under the Turkey Wealth Fund. The findings were submitted to the Turkish Grand National Assembly’s (TBMM) Public Economic Enterprises (KİT) Commission, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction among both citizens and retailers.

The report notes that many respondents do not find the current draw system transparent and are generally unhappy with services and new implementations introduced since privatization. Notably, some participants were reportedly too angry to participate in the survey.

“Participants expressed dissatisfaction with the privatization, services, and the current draw system. Work could not be conducted with individuals who were openly angry,” the summary states.

Retailers Voice Discontent Over Revenue and Commissions

The survey also reflects deep frustration among lottery ticket retailers (bayiler). Key takeaways from the retailer-specific section include:

• 9% of retailers were unaware that Milli Piyango had been privatized.

• Retailers widely criticized the drop in earnings and reduced commission rates.

• Many stated that they no longer see the institution as trustworthy.

• Retailers said customers also share their dissatisfaction.

“There’s a growing perception among agents that authority has been restricted and profitability severely impacted,” the report notes.

Public Perceives Draw System as Opaque

According to journalist Veli Toprak, the survey found that a significant portion of the general public sees the digital and numerical lottery games as lacking transparency. Despite face-to-face interviews, many refused to fill out the survey forms due to anger and distrust.

“The majority view the new draw system and updates unfavorably. Discontent was especially high among participants unwilling to complete the survey,” the report notes.

Widespread Backlash Against Privatization

The findings underscore a broader backlash against the privatization of national institutions, with Milli Piyango now emblematic of what critics call commercial mismanagement and a loss of public accountability. Both the public and vendors appear to believe that the organization no longer operates with the transparency and fairness it once promised.