Özgür Özel: They Forced Our Mayors to Choose Between Prison and Switching Parties
At the 46th regular convention of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) in Karahisar, Turkey, CHP leader Özgür Özel warned of increasing pressure on the party’s elected mayors.
Referring to mayors defecting to the ruling party, he said:
“The mayor of Aydın was explicitly told: ‘Either join the Justice and Development Party (AKP) or go to prison.’ This coercion is a blatant violation of the people’s will.”
Özel also highlighted the economic consequences of political coercion, stating:
“After the mayor of Aydın switched parties, shares of affiliated companies suddenly surged in the stock market. This shows how political pressure can influence financial interests.”
Addressing judicial actions against Istanbul Municipality, Özel expressed concern over potential changes in the city council’s composition:
“If just two council members change their stance, control will shift to AKP—a scenario we previously witnessed in Aydın.”
He further emphasized:
“We’ve told our mayors: If you’ve done nothing wrong, do not fear; we stand with you.”
During the event, the CHP’s Karahisar branch chair read a letter from imprisoned Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu to the attendees. Sent from Silivri Prison, the letter stressed the need to restore democracy, reform the judiciary, and preserve social hope—earning enthusiastic applause.
The convention, featuring cultural and artistic performances, concluded peacefully and in an orderly manner.
