01.04.2026 09:36
CHP Chairman Özgür Özel made a surprising statement by proposing a "by-election." Özel stated that he would discuss this with the Speaker of the Parliament, Numan Kurtulmuş, and suggested that if a decision is made for general elections, local elections could also be held simultaneously. A by-election is planned to be initiated in the Turkish Grand National Assembly with the resignation of 22 CHP deputies.
CHP Chairman Özgür Özel announced that he will visit the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, Numan Kurtulmuş, regarding the agenda of by-elections in the coming days. Özel stated, “We will have a very ambitious move. We are in the days when the Constitution mandates by-elections.” In response to journalists' question, “What do you mean?” he replied, “We will announce it that day.” Özel also noted that all steps will be taken to bring the ballot box.
"WE WILL BRING THE BALLOT BOX IN SOME WAY"
In his statement, Özel said, "We will do everything to bring the general election ballot box. If it doesn't happen, I will request a meeting with the Speaker of the Assembly in the coming days. We will somehow bring a ballot box in front of this nation. We will take all risks. Come on. If I lose to the AK Party in places where the CHP has previously won, I will resign again. You bring the general election ballot box in May or June; anyone who does not bring all the local election ballot boxes is a coward. (The agenda of the meeting with the Speaker of the Assembly) is aimed at the by-election. We are in the days when the Constitution mandates by-elections. The Speaker of the Assembly also has a stance to take regarding the by-election. We will do our part in this matter." he said.
STRIKING CLAIM IN ANKARA LOBBIES
Özel's statements led to different interpretations in the Ankara lobbies. According to Sözcü's report, this move was evaluated as “a maneuver to force a by-election by vacating 30 seats in the Grand National Assembly.”
CRITICAL NUMBER FOR BY-ELECTION: 30 SEATS
Currently, there are 8 vacant seats in the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM). According to Article 78 of the Constitution, this number must reach 30 for a by-election to be held. In this context, it is stated that the necessary number could be reached if 22 CHP deputies resign. If the Assembly accepts this situation, it is anticipated that the election process will be initiated within 3 months.