In a statement on his social media accounts, Ozaseki said:
A long time ago. In 1994, at the strong request of my compatriots in Kayseri, I joined the service caravan as Mayor. It was a difficult year for Turkey. During this continuous journey as Mayor of Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality, I felt a deep spiritual joy in serving the city where I was born, working hard and leaving my mark in every corner of the city.
Over the next few years, it became our destiny to serve our country in various capacities. I served beautiful Turkey first as Deputy Chairman of Kayseri, then as Deputy Chairman of the AK Party, and as Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. It has always been an honor for us to walk alongside you throughout this tenure.
I have accepted the historic responsibility of healing the wounds of the greatest natural disaster that has ever befallen our country and rebuilding our destroyed cities. Thank goodness; at this point, we have made great progress in resolving the problem. The path has been made clear, and the construction and restoration work to be carried out has been determined in stages.
“Due to health issues, I conveyed my request to the president.”
Today, I informed our esteemed President that due to health issues, I wish to step down from this sacred duty, which I have voluntarily accepted.
Throughout the duties which I assumed, I worked day and night, without any involvement in worldly considerations, with the sole object of securing the divine consent. I was especially careful to avoid any attitude that was contrary to the measure of conscience. I have always valued my own sensibilities, lest I should let myself or my children pass unlawful morsels down their throats.
Going forward, I intend to continue to serve in our family foundation as long as my health allows, and of course I will continue to support causes that benefit my country.
I particularly hope that our country will allow them their rights. I would like to express my gratitude to our respected President for the trust and goodwill shown to him.
