Tension continues in the ruling AKP (Justice and Development Party) after the corruption and fraud investigation which has shaken Turkey and the government that has been forced to make a Cabinet reshuffle after the resignation of ministers.

Three deputies of the ruling AKP government have been referred to the discipline committee for their definitive expulsion from the party after publically expressing criticism over the graft scandal.

In a statement about the action against İzmir deputies Ertuğrul Günay and Erdal Kalkan and Ankara MP Haluk Özdalga, AKP said the three MPs have been sent to the party’s joint disciplinary committee due to their verbal and written statements against the policies, basic principles and practices of the party.

İzmir deputy Erdal Kalkan had announced on social media that he resigned from the ruling party before the statement of the party was released late on Thursday.

In a statement after the action, former Culture Minister Ertuğrul Günay said "The party doesn't want us because we object to corruptions and we will not stay there where we are not wanted". Günay said there is no need for a party, position or a post to lead a fair politics. "We are yet at the beginning of the road and there is a need for a clear conscience and faith", he said.