CHP Istanbul marches for 'Livelihood, Freedom, Justice, Election,' criticizes government's handling of economy and democracy

The Republican People's Party (CHP) Istanbul chapter organized a march in Beykoz, chanting slogans for "Livelihood, Freedom, Justice, Election." The demonstration, which began in Sultaniye Park and proceeded to Paşabahçe Square, saw participants carrying banners that read "CHP is the People, What the People Say Happens." Slogans echoed demands for an "Open Istanbul, Open Turkey" and "Law, Law, Justice."

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We wake up to an operation every new day, trying to cover up Turkey's poverty and misery with a new operation.

CHP Istanbul Provincial Chair Özgür Çelik addressed the crowd, stating that the party has been under significant attack for the past 19 months. He asserted that the current administration is attempting to prevent citizens from going to the polls and is steering the country towards a monarchy. Çelik extended his gratitude to all opposition parties and individuals who have stood against these "undemocratic practices."

Çelik criticized the government's economic policies, which he claims have driven retirees, workers, and civil servants into poverty. He accused the administration of attempting to obscure this reality by launching new "operations" each day. "Every new day we wake up to an operation, trying to cover up Turkey's poverty and misery with a new operation," he stated.

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The current administration is attempting to prevent citizens from going to the polls and is steering the country towards a monarchy.

The provincial chair also drew attention to the plight of teachers. He voiced solidarity with teachers on a hunger strike in Ankara protesting low wages and the inability to secure positions. Çelik condemned the recruitment process, where high-scoring candidates are allegedly rejected in interviews due to a lack of political connections, while those with lower scores are appointed through "political favoritism." He also called for the reinstatement of a minimum wage for private school teachers, who he says are currently working for less than the minimum wage.

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Private school teachers' right to a minimum wage must be returned, their rights must be given.