ksözcü is one of the most popular newspapers in Turkey. The word ksözcü in Turkish means “spokesperson.” It has become a strong voice in Turkish media because of its open criticism of the government and its support for secular and democratic values. In this article, you will learn about the history of the newspaper, its owners, its political stance, and its influence on readers. This guide is written in simple English so that everyone can understand it.
The Beginning of Ksözcü
ksözcü was first published on 27 June 2007 in Istanbul, Turkey. The founder was Burak Akbay, a Turkish businessman who wanted to create a newspaper that spoke directly to ordinary people. Before ksözcü, there was another newspaper called Gözcü (meaning “observer”) which had a similar style but closed down in 2007. After this, Akbay launched ksözcü with the goal of continuing that voice in Turkish media.
From the very beginning, ksözcü grew quickly. Many readers liked its simple style, bold headlines, and strong criticism of the ruling party. Within a few years, it became one of the best-selling newspapers in Turkey.
Ownership and Company Structure
ksözcü is published by Estetik Yayıncılık A.Ş. (Estetik Publishing). At first, Burak Akbay fully owned the company. In 2019, the shares were transferred to BEME Media AG, a company registered in Switzerland. Even though the legal owner changed, the Akbay family still has strong influence in the newspaper’s direction.
This structure is important because it shows that the owners wanted to protect the newspaper from political and financial pressure inside Turkey.
Political Stance and Editorial Line
ksözcü is known for its Kemalist and secular stance. Kemalism is the political philosophy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the modern Turkish Republic. This means the newspaper strongly supports:
- Secularism (separation of religion and state)
- Nationalism (love for the Turkish nation)
- Democracy and modern values
Because of this stance, ksözcü often criticizes the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Many of its articles are tough on government policies. Readers who disagree with the government often choose ksözcü because it reflects their voice.
Style of Reporting
ksözcü uses a style that is direct, simple, and often emotional. Headlines are usually short and strong. Articles are written in a way that can be understood by ordinary readers without much background knowledge.
The newspaper also likes to use humor, satire, and cartoons. This makes it more attractive to readers who enjoy bold and colorful journalism.
Circulation and Popularity
In the years after its launch, ksözcü became one of the top-selling newspapers in Turkey. By 2018, it sold about 300,000 copies daily, making it one of the biggest players in the market. Its website sozcu.com.tr also became one of the most visited news sites in the country.
The digital version of the newspaper is very important today. Many young readers prefer to follow news online instead of buying paper copies. ksözcü has adjusted well to this change by creating strong online content and active social media accounts.
ksözcü TV and Other Media
ksözcü is not only a newspaper. It has expanded into other areas:
- ksözcü TV: A television channel launched to give viewers live news and talk shows.
- Korkusuz: A daily newspaper under the same group, focusing on similar topics.
- Sports and magazines: In the past, ksözcü also published a sports daily called AMK.
This shows that the group is trying to build a full media empire, not just one newspaper.
Challenges and Pressures
Because ksözcü is often critical of the government, it has faced many legal and political challenges. Some examples include:
- Journalists from ksözcü have been taken to court for “insulting the president” or “supporting opposition groups.”
- The government has sometimes blocked state advertisements from appearing in ksözcü. This has affected its income.
- In 2017, police raided its offices and detained some staff members.
Despite these problems, the newspaper continues to publish and remains popular among its readers. This shows its strength and the trust it has built with the public.
Impact on Turkish Media
ksözcü plays a very important role in Turkey. In a media environment where many outlets are close to the government, Sözcü gives space to opposition voices. It has become a symbol of independent and critical journalism.
For many readers, buying or reading ksözcü is not only about news. It is also about showing support for freedom of speech and democracy.
Future of Ksözcü
Like many newspapers in the world, ksözcü faces challenges from the digital era. More people now read news online and do not buy printed papers. At the same time, political pressure continues.
However, ksözcü has a loyal base of readers. Its strong brand, online presence, and TV channel may help it remain important in Turkish media for years to come.
Conclusion
ksözcü is more than just a newspaper. It is a voice for millions of people in Turkey who want secularism, democracy, and open criticism of power. From its foundation in 2007 until today, it has grown into one of the country’s biggest media groups. Even with pressure and challenges, ksözcü continues to play a key role in shaping Turkish public opinion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does the word “ksözcü” mean?
It means “spokesperson” in Turkish.
2. When was ksözcü founded?
It was founded on 27 June 2007.
3. Who founded ksözcü ?
The founder is Burak Akbay, a Turkish businessman.
4. Who owns ksözcü today?
It is owned by BEME Media AG, a company in Switzerland, but the Akbay family still has influence.
5. What is ksözcü political stance?
It follows Kemalist and secular values and is critical of the ruling AKP government.
6. How popular is ksözcü?
By 2018, it sold about 300,000 copies daily and has a very popular website.
7. Does ksözcü have a TV channel?
Yes, it has ksözcü TV, which shows news and talk programs.
8. Why has ksözcü faced legal problems?
Because of its criticism of the government, journalists and staff have faced court cases and pressure.
9. What other newspapers belong to the ksözcü group?
It also publishes Korkusuz, another daily newspaper.
10. Why is ksözcü important for Turkish media?
It is important because it gives a voice to opposition views and supports freedom of speech.
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