CHP Leader Özgür Özel Criticizes Kılıçdaroğlu's 'Ottoman Geography' Remarks, Fears Alliance with Cumhur İttifak

Özgür Özel, the leader of Turkey's Republican People's Party (CHP), has voiced significant concerns regarding statements made by Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, who was recently appointed party leader by a court decision. Özel found Kılıçdaroğlu's remarks about needing to move forward by "growing, not shrinking" and that "Turkey should be in the Ottoman geography" to be "terrible" and "very dangerous."

Özel elaborated on his fears, suggesting two possible interpretations of Kılıçdaroğlu's statements. One possibility is a bid for legitimacy from both the U.S. and the current Turkish regime by aligning with prevailing narratives. The other, more alarming interpretation, is that an actual agreement has been reached to drag the CHP into such a framework. Özel stated that these possibilities, particularly the latter, have kept him awake at night.

Furthermore, Özel addressed the potential for Kılıçdaroğlu and his team to become integrated into the Cumhur İttifak (People's Alliance). "After what we have experienced in the last month, I cannot say anything is impossible. I cannot vouch for anyone at this point," Özel stated, reflecting a deep distrust stemming from recent events. He cited the case of a journalist who accurately predicted expulsions from the party, noting that party officials had denied any such plans while expulsions were being carried out.

Özel expressed his disbelief at the current situation, where individuals within the CHP leadership reportedly receive "good news" from Akın Gürlek, a figure associated with controversial judicial decisions, and accurately predict internal party purges. He questioned the nature of the relationship between party officials and Gürlek, suggesting that steps were planned collaboratively. Özel admitted that just a month prior, he would have vouched for the current leadership, believing they would not deviate from the CHP's established principles.