Opposition MP blames Turkish government for remarkable number of drowning deaths over holiday

ISTANBUL - Hürriyet

More than 30 people drowned in Turkey's seas and lakes last week, with 13 deaths on Aug. 11. AA photo

A Republican People's Party (CHP) deputy has blamed the government for the high number of drowning deaths, which surpassed 30 across the country in the last week, including over the Eid al-Fitr holiday.

"If people don't know how to swim and drown in a country surrounded by the sea on three sides, the government is responsible. Every citizen should be taught to swim," Mahmut Tanal tweeted.

Following a number of responses to his tweet making fun of his remarks, he explained his point in another tweet. "Isn't it the government that doesn't include swimming lessons in school curriculums?"

More than 30 people drowned in Turkey's seas and lakes last week, with 13 deaths on Aug. 11.