08.05.2026 00:50
The claim that has been discussed for days in Turkish politics has become official. Afyonkarahisar Mayor Burcu Köksal announced that she has decided to resign from the CHP and join the AK Party. Stating that there was no pressure or investigation behind her decision, Köksal said she had spoken with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and received a message of support. Köksal's pin is expected to be attached at the expanded provincial heads meeting to be held on Tuesday.
The rumors that have been circulating in political circles for two days have become reality. Burcu Köksal broke her silence on the party change allegations that have been debated in the public eye for days. Announcing that she would resign from the CHP and join the AK Party, Köksal put an end to the discussions.
Journalist Barış Yarkadaş shared Burcu Köksal’s first statements on the matter with the public. According to Yarkadaş, Köksal said, “Yes, I have made a decision. On Tuesday, at the expanded provincial chairmen’s meeting, I am joining the AK Party.”
“NO PRESSURE OR THREAT INVOLVED”
President Burcu Köksal stated that there was no pressure or threat behind her decision to switch to the AK Party, saying, “There is no threat or pressure behind this decision. There is also no investigation against me.”
“I SPOKE WITH THE PRESIDENT FOR HALF AN HOUR”
Köksal also revealed that she had a meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
According to the reported information, Burcu Köksal said, “I spoke with the President yesterday for more than half an hour. The President mentioned some poll studies and showed that my personal compatibility in the survey was very high.”
“WE SUPPORT YOU AS A PARTY”
It was stated that President Erdoğan said, “As a party, we support you. Don’t let criticisms affect you. Continue your service. We will provide you with every kind of support as a party and stand behind you.”
Burcu Köksal’s membership in the AK Party is expected to be formalized at the expanded provincial chairmen’s meeting on Tuesday.