09.08.2026 21:40
Following the message of "unwavering support" from CHP Chairman Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu regarding the "Terror-Free Turkey" process, a remarkable move came from his party. CHP Istanbul Deputy İlhan Kesici announced that he would vote "no" on the "framework law" proposal expected to be discussed in the Turkish Grand National Assembly, becoming the first dissenter within the party.
Following CHP Chairman Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu's statement that they would "contribute without hesitation" to the "Terror-Free Turkey" process, the first dissenting voice emerged from within the CHP. CHP Istanbul Deputy İlhan Kesici announced that he would vote "no" on the "Proposal for the Law on Strengthening National Solidarity and Social Cohesion," which is expected to be discussed and voted on in the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) General Assembly.
"THE COLOR OF MY VOTE IS CLEAR: NO"
In a post on his social media account, Kesici stated that his decision on the proposal was clear, saying, "I respectfully present to the public that I will vote 'NO' on the 'Proposal for the Law on Strengthening National Solidarity and Social Cohesion,' which will be discussed and voted on tomorrow (August 10, 2026) in the TBMM."
"THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY IS A NATION-STATE AND A UNITARY STATE"
Emphasizing the founding and state structure of the Republic of Turkey, Kesici said in his post, "The Republic of Turkey is a 'Nation-State and Unitary State' established at great cost."
Kesici also stated that he believes the proposal contains elements that could undermine the fundamental characteristics of the Republic, saying, "I believe this proposal carries elements, both now and in the process, that could impair this fundamental characteristic of our Republic. I cannot consent to this."
"MY LOYALTY TO MY PARLIAMENTARY OATH IS COMPLETE"
CHP Istanbul Deputy İlhan Kesici stated that his decision is also linked to his parliamentary oath, saying, "My loyalty to the parliamentary oath I took under Article 81 of the Constitution of the Republic of Turkey is complete."
Kesici concluded his post with the words, "For this reason, the color of my vote is clear: NO."
KILIÇDAROĞLU HAD SAID "UNHESITATING SUPPORT"
CHP Chairman Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, on the other hand, had previously given the message regarding the Terror-Free Turkey process, "We will contribute to this process without hesitation."
Kesici's statement stands out as the first clear "no" within the CHP following Kılıçdaroğlu's stance.