Ozgur Ozel re-elected chair of main opposition party in Turkey
Briefly

Özgür Özel was re-elected as chairman of the Republican People's Party (CHP) during an assembly in Ankara, garnering significant support despite ongoing political turmoil. His re-election occurs as the party confronts a severe crackdown on opposition figures, including the arrest of prominent members like Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. This situation has sparked allegations from the opposition claiming a 'judicial coup' is taking place. The government, however, claims its judiciary is unbiased. Additionally, an investigation into the recent congress includes allegations of vote-buying, further complicating the party's internal politics and external pressures.
The assembly took place amidst one of the fiercest crackdowns against the opposition in Turkey, which saw the arrest of top-ranking CHP figures such as the party's presidential nominee, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu.
The government insists that courts in Turkey operate 'independently and in an unbiased manner.' However, the opposition condemns this as a 'judicial coup' against them, especially following the arrest of İmamoğlu.
An investigation into the CHP congress was initiated, alleging that delegates were 'given money, phones and houses in exchange for votes'. This adds to the tensions as the party navigates these challenges.
In light of the political climate, former CHP chairman Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu announced he would not be a candidate for the upcoming extraordinary congress amidst ongoing pressure and internal strife.
Read at euronews
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