The Republican People’s Party (CHP) held an Extraordinary General Assembly in Ankara, where incumbent chairman Özgür Özel secured re-election for a second term, receiving 1,171 out of 1,276 votes. During the assembly, Antalya Muratpaşa Mayor Ümit Uysal withdrew his candidacy, while former CHP Istanbul Provincial Chairman Berhan Şimşek did not gather enough votes to succeed.
This assembly occurred during a time of intense government action against the opposition in Turkey, marked by the arrest of key CHP figures, including the party’s presidential nominee, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. The opposition has condemned these arrests and ongoing national protests, labeling the March 19 arrest of İmamoğlu, who was sent to Silivri prison, as a “judicial coup” against them. The government maintains that Turkish courts function independently and without bias.
On February 10, the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated an investigation into the CHP congress held on November 4-5, 2023. The investigation focuses on allegations that CHP delegates were offered money, phones, and houses in exchange for votes. The prosecutor plans to question party officials involved in the 38th Ordinary Congress of the CHP, where Özgür Özel was elected as chairman.
A week prior to the investigation, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan criticized the CHP, claiming that former chair Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu was ousted through a questionable congress. Kılıçdaroğlu, who led the CHP from 2010 to 2023, confirmed he would not seek candidacy in the upcoming extraordinary congress.
Meanwhile, CHP Istanbul Deputy Oğuz Kaan Salıcı announced plans to present an alternative list against Özel’s at the congress. Salıcı expressed a desire for balance and solidarity within the party, urging delegates to support the “Balance and Solidarity List” during the Party Assembly elections at the 21st Extraordinary Congress.
Özgür Özel emphasized that the extraordinary assembly was convened to prevent external influence over the CHP and encouraged delegates to participate in the voting process.
Impact on Daily Life
- The political tension and arrests may lead to increased public protests, affecting daily life and public safety in Turkey.
- Allegations of vote-buying and internal party disputes could undermine public trust in political institutions, impacting voter engagement and participation.
- The ongoing political crackdown may influence Turkey’s international relations and its perception on the global stage.
- Economic implications could arise if political instability affects investor confidence and economic growth in the region.
- Citizens may experience heightened political polarization, impacting community dynamics and social cohesion.
