25.05.2026 17:11
After the recent management disputes within the CHP and the police intervention at the party headquarters, attention has turned to internal party statements. Former CHP Deputy Chairperson Yılmaz Ateş met with Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, who was temporarily appointed as party chair by a court decision. Following the visit, Ateş commented on the forced entry into the party headquarters by police, saying, "I watched it with a bleeding heart," and called for unity and common sense within the party.
Former CHP Deputy Chairperson Yılmaz Ateş visited Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, who was temporarily appointed as the CHP Chairperson by an appellate court decision, at his office in Ankara Çukurambar. Speaking after the visit, Ateş reacted to the police intervention at the CHP headquarters, stating that the process is regrettable for the party.
“UNITY AND SOLIDARITY MUST BE ENSURED IN THE CHP”
Ateş emphasized that the CHP is Turkey's founding and liberating party, and noted that in a period marked by regional developments and a war environment, social unity and solidarity have gained importance. He stated that for the national unity environment to strengthen in Turkey, reconciliation and integrity must first be ensured within the CHP.
“THIS POINT SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN REACHED”
Commenting on the entry into the CHP headquarters under police escort, Ateş said the images deeply affected him. Ateş stated, “I watched it with a bleeding heart. This point should not have been reached. It was not the right thing. None of us wanted this problem, but after it emerged, everyone should do their best.”
MADE A CALL FOR RECONCILIATION
In his statement, Ateş also delivered a message to the parties, emphasizing that all actors should take responsibility in the face of the emerging situation, and highlighted the importance of steps that would lower tensions within the party.
HE WAS AMONG THE CLOSEST NAMES TO DENİZ BAYKAL
Ateş was one of the closest names to former CHP chairperson Deniz Baykal. Kılıçdaroğlu had also been one of his harshest opponents for many years. While openly criticizing Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu since his chairmanship process, Ateş accused him of coming to power through a tape conspiracy and made harsh statements, especially after election defeats, calling for his resignation.