Türkiye’s top business group leader under investigation: Listening or silencing business?

A formal investigation has been launched against Mehmet Ömer Arif Aras, President of the High Advisory Council (YİK) of the Turkish Industry and Business Association (TÜSİAD), based on the views and criticisms he expressed during the association’s general assembly.

Having served in the public sector, international organizations, and now in private industry for many years—witnessing Turkey’s economic and social dynamics from multiple vantage points—I can state unequivocally: this country cannot be governed by the government alone.

The business world, which invests, generates financing, provides employment, develops technology, engages in trade, and attracts foreign capital, is one of Turkey’s most significant stakeholders. Their perspectives, suggestions, and criticisms cannot be ignored; on the contrary, they must be taken into account for the country’s future.

Whom Does TÜSİAD Represent?

As a well-established institution, TÜSİAD represents 4,500 member companies that form the backbone of Turkey’s economy. These companies account for 80% of the country’s non-energy foreign trade, provide 57% of non-public employment, and contribute 80% of corporate tax revenues.

These figures clearly demonstrate that the business world exists not only for its own benefit but for Turkey’s shared future. They produce, export, create jobs, and pay taxes. But beyond that, they generate ideas and propose solutions for the country’s growth and development. This is precisely why, instead of silencing the business world, it must be heard.

The foundation of a stable economic order is a reliable legal system and judicial independence. When the judiciary is not independent and the political climate is unpredictable, investment decisions falter. Without a fair legal system, capital flees, investments stall, and employment declines. This is not just a loss for the business world—it is a loss for society as a whole.

A Sincere Dialogue Must Be Established

It must be remembered that leading business organizations such as TÜSİAD, TOBB, and MÜSİAD are not mere “hobby clubs”; they are strategic partners in ensuring the country’s economic well-being. Expressing their members’ concerns and expectations is not just about self-interest; it is a responsibility toward the nation’s future.

Solutions are not found by silencing criticism but by listening to it. Criticism is not a threat; it is an opportunity for improvement. The business world is not against the government—nor should it be. Rather, it seeks to stand alongside the government as part of the solution for Turkey’s future.

However, if public criticism is deemed unsettling, then let frank discussions take place behind closed doors. Let common sense prevail, and let proposals be carefully considered. Let go of prejudices, shift the focus from past grievances to future opportunities. Let us not forget: the government before us has been in power for 23 years and remains in full control.

We Cannot Afford to Alienate the Business World

Instead of looking to the past, we must focus on the opportunities ahead. We are navigating a difficult economic bottleneck; we do not have the luxury of alienating the business world or silencing its voice. This is a voice that should not be suppressed but rather listened to. Their recommendations reflect not just their own sectoral interests but Turkey’s broader national interests.

That is why political direction, policy decisions, and judicial independence are also concerns for the business community—because these factors fundamentally impact their work.

The business world is not a burden on this country; it is its strongest lever. Public resources are largely sustained by the taxes they pay.

I say this plainly: do not fear dialogue or constructive criticism. We can only lift this country up together. The government’s duty is to listen to the business world, strengthen judicial independence, and adopt a governance approach rooted in transparency and accountability.

The business world’s duty, in turn, is to provide guidance through its criticisms and build a partnership based on mutual trust.

Turkey belongs to all of us. We can only grow by standing side by side, not against one another—by listening to, not silencing, each other.

The voice of the business world is not just the voice of today; it is the voice of Turkey’s future, just like those of trade unions, universities, local governments, parliamentarians, and all segments of society.