26.05.2026 18:10
After the absolute nullity decision regarding CHP's 38th Ordinary Congress, Özgür Özel's removal from office and Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu's return to the chairmanship stirred up Ankara's backstage circles. It was announced that MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli, whose stance on the developments is eagerly awaited, will issue a call to Kılıçdaroğlu and Özel tomorrow.
The Ankara Regional Court of Appeal recently ruled that the 38th Ordinary Congress of the CHP was void due to absolute nullity, thereby canceling the congress. Following this historic decision, Özgür Özel was removed from office, and Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu returned to the party's chairmanship. The court's recognition of the pre-November 2023 administration of the main opposition party has caused an earthquake in Ankara's political corridors.
BAHÇELİ WILL MAKE A CALL TOMORROW
As the stance of political leaders toward this development is eagerly awaited, a remarkable move came from MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli. It was announced that MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli will make an important call to both Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu and Özgür Özel tomorrow following the crisis.
"KILIÇDAROĞLU MUST MEET WITH ÖZEL AND STATE HIS RENUNCIATION"
Meanwhile, in a written statement to CNN Türk the other day, Bahçeli used the following expressions: "Common sense should prevail in the CHP. Mr. Kılıçdaroğlu must undertake a historic responsibility by acknowledging that the injustice done to him is recognized, while also ensuring not to hurt, wound, or cause chaos in this deep-rooted institution where he served as chairman for 13 years. Within the framework permitted by law, he should meet with Mr. Özgür Özel and state his renunciation in order to formulate a joint formula for the future of the CHP. This outcome will benefit both the CHP and our country. With this historic responsibility, Mr. Kılıçdaroğlu will also earn a special place in the hearts of both the institutional identity of the CHP and our citizens devoted to the CHP."
"THE ONLY WAY AT THIS STAGE IS TO RECONCILE"
The statements made by Mr. Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu and Mr. Özgür Özel after the decision are within the framework of unity. However, transforming this into the common will of the CHP will make these efforts constructive. Our hope is that, instead of forming crowds and issuing mutual challenges, both chairmen come together and find a common path based on the interests of the CHP, making necessary sacrifices within the possibilities provided by the law, party bylaws, and the court decision. They should do this without delay and without causing social or intra-party turmoil. It should not be forgotten that an attitude that could evolve into betrayal of the CHP's institutional identity, legacy, and grassroots will be a heavy burden for those who have served the CHP. The only way at this stage is to reconcile; the fundamental element of reconciliation is to avoid provocations and act with a sense of renunciation and responsibility.
Turkey is a democratic state of law. It has a strong political culture. According to our Constitution, the judiciary is impartial and independent. Turkey belongs to all of us. With this understanding, acting within the framework of rules and institutions with common sense, unity, and solidarity, and reaching a consensus on the future of the CHP will be the most beneficial path."