Özgür Özel announced the beginning of a new phase in the Republican People’s Party
The Republican People’s Party of Turkey introduced its new political and social program at a ceremony held at its headquarters, under the slogans “Strong Citizen,” “Secure Future,” and “Victorious Turkey.” Party Chairman Özgür Özel stated that the program was the result of a year of intensive work and would be submitted for a vote at the upcoming congress.
The program was prepared on the basis of democracy, justice, transparency, and citizen equality, with the aim of returning to the parliamentary system, strengthening the social welfare state, and establishing sustainable structures in the economy and foreign policy. Özel emphasized that the Republican People’s Party is determined to ensure social justice, resolve economic problems with a new approach, and enhance Turkey’s international standing.
In his remarks, Özel stressed the need to fight corruption, guarantee transparency in political financing, and rewrite public laws. He said that citizens must be equal before the law and that the government should operate under the direct supervision of the people. Özel also highlighted respect for diverse identities and beliefs, promising that the issues concerning Kurds and Alevis would be resolved within a democratic framework and with justice.
In the economic field, Özel spoke of a fourfold transformation consisting of green, purple, digital, and qualified employment. He pledged to establish tax justice, improve minimum wages and pensions, end dependence on agricultural imports, and implement a basic citizen income. He also emphasized support for women and children, stating that every child would have access to free meals at school and that public kindergartens would be established.
On foreign policy, Özel declared that the passport of the Republic of Turkey would regain its prestige and that the steps to be taken in democracy and justice would pave the way for full membership in the European Union. He added that Turkey would soon become a full member of the EU and that the country would be prepared for disasters and climate crises.
Party Secretary General Selin Sayek Böke explained that the new program was prepared on the basis of the party’s six arrows and divided into four main pillars: “Democracy, Governance and Justice,” “Development and Economy,” “Social Affairs and Foreign Policy,” and “Security and Resilience.” Böke stated that the program includes active citizen participation in legislation, budget transparency, ending treasury guarantees, improving unemployment insurance conditions, domestic production of medicines and vaccines, rejoining the Istanbul Convention, and strengthening disaster management.
