Erdogan Announces Major Cabinet Reshuffle

Turkish PM Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced a major cabinet reshuffle after three ministerial resignations over a high-level graft inquiry on Wednesday.

Minister Bayraktar Erdogan replaced ten cabinet ministers, half of his total roster. The replaced ministers included EU minister Egemen Bagis, who was allegedly named in the corruption probe but had not resigned yet, and key positions such as the economy and justice ministers

One of those who quit also, Environment Minister Erdogan Bayraktar, had urged Erdogan to step down himself.

Police are investigating allegations of illicit money transfers to Iran and bribery for construction projects.

Bayraktar, Economy Minister Zafer Caglayan and Interior Minister Muammer Guler quit after their sons were taken into custody. All three denied any wrongdoing.

In Istanbul, protesters held a street rally against corruption in the government. There were reports of clashes with riot police late on Wednesday evening.