Bundestag member Ferat Kocak (Die Linke) has temporarily suspended his political duties. Sören Pellmann, the party leader for Die Linke in Berlin, stated that Kocak had notified them he would step back until full transparency could be established. Pellmann added that the party would wait and then collectively discuss potential consequences later. For the time being, Kocak will not participate in meetings of the Bundestag’s Internal Affairs Committee.
The background to this situation involves recently published chat messages. These messages reportedly showed Kocak sending “regards with respect” to clan boss Issa Remmo, and also asking Remmo’s son to share a video of his Bundestag speech. Furthermore, Issa Remmo was allegedly seen at the Neukölln Die Linke party event. Party leadership declared that Remmo had not been invited and was asked to leave immediately upon recognition.
Kocak subsequently apologized publicly. He acknowledged that the reports had understandably caused public concerns, stating, “Contacts of mandate holders with individuals associated with organized crime are inexcusable.”
Kocak defended his interactions by explaining that he communicates with hundreds of residents in Neukölln weekly through social media channels, and that his communication with Remmo was “like with any other resident of Neukölln,” and he “greeted his father politely.” He claimed he was unaware of Remmo’s identity at the time. As a public figure, he stressed that he carries a special responsibility. He announced that he would now take the time required to clear up any doubts and, in consultation with his team, review his communication behavior to ensure full transparency.
