The corruption trial against Dilek Kalayci, a former Berlin Health Senator, has reached its conclusion. Kalayci faced charges of bribery related to her 2019 wedding celebration. The prosecution alleged that she arranged for a lucrative contract to be awarded to an advertising agency that planned her wedding. The head of the agency was also charged with bribery. Both defendants denied the allegations throughout the proceedings.
The prosecution sought a suspended sentence of one and a half years and a fine of 36,000 euros for Kalayci. For the agency head, they requested a one-year and three-month suspended sentence, along with a 7,500 euro fine. Despite the defense's call for acquittal, the Berlin District Court found Kalayci guilty of the charges. The court concluded that Kalayci's actions constituted bribery, affirming the prosecution's claims.
As a result, Kalayci received a suspended sentence of one and a half years. The court imposed a similar penalty on the agency head, with a suspended sentence of one year and three months. Kalayci maintained her innocence, asserting that she believed all transactions were accounted for properly.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about corruption within public office. The court's decision reflects a firm stance against such practices, emphasizing accountability for public officials. While Kalayci and her co-defendant disputed the verdict, the judgment underscores the seriousness of upholding integrity in public service.
