24.07.2026 15:21
Tense moments occurred as Özgür Özel, who resigned from CHP to found the New Party, was leaving Friday prayers. A verbal argument that started between his supporters and opponents at Hacı Bayram-ı Veli Mosque turned into a scuffle after former CHP Erzincan Deputy Mustafa Sarıgül kicked someone.
After resigning from CHP, a brawl involving kicks broke out between supporters of Özgür Özel and those protesting him as he left Friday prayers.
Özgür Özel, who had previously announced he would leave CHP following the absolute nullity decision, resigned from party membership on Friday and signed the founding documents of a new political formation. Along with Özel, 91 deputies also left CHP and joined the New Party Founding Board. While the party's establishment petition was submitted to the Ministry of Interior, Özel removed the title "CHP Chairman" from his social media account and shared the logo of his new party.
TENSIONS RISE AT THE MOSQUE
After the establishment procedures, Özgür Özel performed Friday prayers at Hacı Bayram-ı Veli Mosque and greeted citizens waiting for him as he left. During this time, a verbal argument broke out between citizens supporting Özel and some individuals protesting him. While Özel's supporters cheered and applauded, one citizen expressed disapproval by shouting 'boo.'
CLASH BETWEEN SARIGÜL AND CITIZENS
During the ensuing tension, former CHP Erzincan Deputy Mustafa Sarıgül reacted to the group that was booing Özel, leading to a physical altercation between the sides. Police officers at the scene quickly intervened and separated the parties. It was reported that the incident was brought under control before escalating.