Full Breakdown
Özgür Özel Prepares for Possible New Party Amid CHP Leadership Crisis
7/15/2026, 9:04:06 PM
Core Development: Plans for a New Political Movement
Ozgur Ozel, the ousted chairman of Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), announced that preparations are under way for a new political party. He told Sözcü TV that “official steps would be taken around late July or early August,” and that a formal launch could occur “towards the end of July or the beginning of August” if legal appeals do not restore his leadership. The contingency plan includes drafting bylaws, a program, and a founders’ board, with provincial heads already consulted.
Background: Court Ruling and Internal Split
In May, a Turkish court annulled the CHP’s November 2023 congress that had elected Ozel, citing irregularities, and reinstated former leader Kemal Kiliçdaroglu. Police stormed the party headquarters during the ruling, and Kiliçdaroglu resumed the chairmanship. The decision deepened a rift that began after the May 2023 presidential election, in which Kiliçdaroglu lost to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Supporters of Ozel, backed by suspended Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, claim the judiciary is being weaponized against the opposition, while the ruling coalition denies any political interference.
Official Statements & Responses
Ozel emphasized that his priority remains a legal challenge and an extraordinary party congress, describing a new party as a “contingency plan rather than the preferred outcome.” The Turkish government reiterated that the judiciary operates independently and rejected accusations of political meddling. Analysts note that the dispute could affect Erdogan’s prospects in an election scheduled by 2028, potentially prompting an earlier vote.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics described the court’s nullification of the congress as “politically motivated” and warned that the crisis could erode democratic norms. Some observers argue that a splinter party might fragment opposition voters, while others suggest it could create a stronger alternative if reconciliation fails.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are working on the name and logo. Let us call it the 'New Party' for now,” — Özgür Özel, Sözcü TV
- “A formal step could be taken towards the end of July or the beginning of August,” — Özgür Özel, Sozcu TV
- “They are not holding the congress despite the signatures we delivered,” — Özgür Özel, Sözcü TV
- “The bylaws are being written, the program is being drafted, and the founders' board is being decided,” — Özgür Özel, Sözcü TV
