Turkey's Main Opposition Party Ousts Veteran Leader Kilicdaroglu, Elects Ozgur Ozel
In a significant shake-up, Turkey's prominent opposition force, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), voted on Sunday to remove longtime leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu and instate Ozgur Ozel, a former pharmacist with limited political experience. This move comes in the wake of a stinging electoral defeat earlier this year at the hands of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's alliance.
The CHP, the oldest political entity and largest opposition party in Turkey, opted for change, electing Ozgur Ozel in their annual congress with 812 votes to Kilicdaroglu's 536.
The pivotal electoral contests took place on May 14, with Erdogan's alliance, led by the Justice and Development Party (AKP), securing a majority in the legislative branch. However, no presidential candidate surpassed the required 50% threshold, leading to a run-off on May 28. In the final tally, Erdogan emerged victorious with 52.14 percent, while Kilicdaroglu garnered 47.86 percent.
Since the electoral setback, Kilicdaroglu faced mounting criticism from factions within his own party, who attributed the defeats to his leadership.
Ozgur Ozel, fluent in German and English, previously served as the deputy parliamentary group chairman of CHP. His background as a pharmacist and subsequent role as the head of Turkey’s pharmacy association provided him with unique insights into both healthcare and civic administration. He entered parliament in 2011.
Following his victory, Ozel expressed his gratitude, saying, “Hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, we are setting out for municipal elections victory … may our road be open.” The municipal elections in Turkey are slated for March, and Ozel is now at the helm of the CHP as they prepare for this crucial political battleground.
The shift in leadership within the CHP adds a new dimension to the political landscape of Turkey, setting the stage for a dynamic period in the lead-up to the upcoming municipal elections. International observers are closely monitoring the developments as the opposition seeks to regroup and make its mark in the political arena.
