The tragic death of Gülşah Durbay, the 37-year-old mayor of Manisa’s Şehzadeler district, has left the community and political sphere in shock. Her untimely passing occurred following a prolonged struggle with health issues, including a diagnosis of colon cancer. Durbay’s life and career embodied a dedication to public service, making her an influential figure in local politics and a symbol of hope for her constituents.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Gülşah Durbay’s Health Struggles |
| 2) Details of the Funeral Ceremony |
| 3) Community Reaction and Condolences |
| 4) Gülşah Durbay’s Background |
| 5) Significance of Durbay’s Leadership |
Gülşah Durbay’s Health Struggles
On August 2, 2024, Gülşah Durbay underwent surgery at İzmir 9 Eylül University Hospital for an intestinal disorder that she had been battling since 2008. Following her surgery, she was diagnosed with colon cancer on September 4, which marked the beginning of an arduous medical journey for the mayor. Durbay received chemotherapy in the subsequent months but continued to experience health complications. On December 1, 2025, her deteriorating blood values and nutritional status prompted her admission to Manisa City Hospital’s Internal Medicine Service.
By December 2, her health had further declined, leading to her transfer to the Intensive Care Unit due to severe kidney and liver function impairment. Despite attempts to stabilize her condition through medical interventions—including a procedure at Izmir City Hospital on December 5—her situation continued to deteriorate. Durbay was intubated and placed on a ventilator on December 12, ultimately leading to her death in intensive care a few days later.
Details of the Funeral Ceremony
The farewell ceremony for Gülşah Durbay is set to take place over various stages, commencing the day following her death. The program will begin at 10:30 AM, with her body being transported from the hospital to Şehzadeler Municipality. An official ceremony is scheduled for 11:00 AM, where community members and officials will gather to pay their respects. Following this, attendees will proceed to Hatuniye Mosque between 12:00 and 1:25 PM for the noon prayer, which will occur at 1:10 PM.
At 1:40 PM, a funeral prayer will be held in Cumhuriyet Square, and the funeral cortege will depart for Koldere Cemetery at 2:15 PM. Family and relatives will be guided to the family residence in Koldere ahead of the burial at 3:45 PM. Condolences will be accepted at Koldere Fatih Exhibition Hall beginning at 4:30 PM, where visitation for the first three days will occur. After the third day, condolences will shift to the family’s home, with further details regarding visitation times to be shared later.
Community Reaction and Condolences
The news of Gülşah Durbay‘s passing has deeply affected the community, prompting expressions of grief from various political leaders, including the Chairman of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), Özgür Özel. Visiting Manisa City Hospital shortly after Durbay’s death, Özel expressed his sorrow and condolences, highlighting the tragic loss faced by the Durbay family and the political community.
“The Durbay Family is being tested today with the loss of a child. The Republican People’s Party family is being tested by the loss of 2 of their children in 6 months,”
Özgür Özel stated, articulating the broader emotional impact felt across the community. He emphasized Durbay’s significance as a dedicated public servant, who had tirelessly worked for the betterment of Manisa.
The sentiment was echoed by other community members who expressed their condolences and praised Durbay’s contributions to the local area. As residents mourn, they reflect on her commitment to improving their lives and championing causes that resonated with their needs.
Gülşah Durbay’s Background
Born on January 4, 1988, in Manisa, Gülşah Durbay was a prominent figure in her hometown long before her rise to mayoralty. She completed her primary and secondary education in Manisa and later pursued higher education at Hacettepe University, earning a degree in Food Engineering in 2011. Pursuing her passion for academic excellence, Durbay furthered her studies and obtained a doctorate in economics and finance from Manisa Celal Bayar University.
Her professional career in the private sector provided her with vital experience that she later applied in her political endeavors. As a consultant specializing in food safety and quality management, Durbay developed expertise that solidified her credibility when she entered political life. Her successful election as the Mayor of Şehzadeler during the local elections on March 31, 2024, represented a groundbreaking achievement as she became the first woman to hold this position in Manisa, inspiring many young women in her community.
Significance of Durbay’s Leadership
Gülşah Durbay’s tenure as mayor was marked by a strong commitment to community engagement and social progress. As a member of the CHP, she championed various initiatives aimed at enhancing local governance and addressing pressing community issues. Her approach was characterized by openness and accessibility, which built a strong rapport between her administration and the citizens of Şehzadeler.
During her brief but impactful leadership, Durbay worked on numerous projects that aimed to develop local infrastructure, improve educational facilities, and expand healthcare services. Her forward-thinking strategies resonated with the electorate, positioning her as a transformative figure in local government. Many viewed her as a role model and a beacon of hope for the younger generation aspiring to enter politics.
The loss of Durbay not only leaves a void in the local political landscape but also raises questions about the future direction of the community initiatives she had so passionately supported. Her legacy will be remembered as one of dedication, service, and a commitment to the betterment of her beloved city.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gülşah Durbay passed away at the age of 37 after battling health complications, including colon cancer. |
| 2 | Her funeral will take place in multiple stages, beginning on December 14, 2025. |
| 3 | Community leaders and residents expressed their sorrow and extended condolences to her family. |
| 4 | Durbay was the first female mayor of Şehzadeler, inspiring many with her dedication to public service. |
| 5 | Her leadership left a significant impact on local governance and community advancement initiatives. |
Summary
The untimely passing of Gülşah Durbay marks a significant loss for both her family and the greater community of Şehzadeler. Celebrated for her dedication to public service and her inspiring journey as the first female mayor, Durbay’s legacy will be felt for years to come. As the community mourns, her contributions serve as a reminder of the impact one individual can have in promoting positive change and fostering hope among residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What were the health issues faced by Gülşah Durbay?
Gülşah Durbay battled an intestinal disorder for several years, which eventually led to a diagnosis of colon cancer. She underwent surgery and received chemotherapy, but complications arose, leading to her hospitalization and eventual passing.
Question: When and where will Gülşah Durbay’s funeral take place?
The funeral program is set to start on December 14, 2025, with various ceremonies including an official service at Şehzadeler Municipality followed by prayers at Hatuniye Mosque and burial at Koldere Cemetery.
Question: What impact did Gülşah Durbay have on her community?
Durbay was known for her commitment to improving local governance and community welfare. She initiated several projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and service quality, leaving a lasting legacy as an inspirational leader.
