CHP leader Özgür Özel responds to 'Erdoğan' and 'arrest' rumors: 'Those who want to push their parties below the threshold might resort to such things'

Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Özgür Özel declared his party's unwavering resolve to confront what he described as operations targeting them. Speaking on the YouTube program "Timur Soykan ile Cevap Hakkı," Özel asserted that if further efforts to thwart the party's actions fail, he will ask the public for direction.

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We are determined to fight this battle in this party until the end. If the last effort is also in vain, then I will ask the nation. Which way should I go? That is, the road is finished. Which way will we go? They will show me a way.

Addressing rumors of operations against him, Özel stated that individuals undertaking such tasks must be prepared for all consequences. He explained that he rejected an offer to remain in opposition for 20 years, instead aiming for power, and thus accepts being a target. He believes these malicious efforts might be initiated by those seeking to push the party below the election threshold.

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I can say this: those who undertake such tasks are setting out by accepting everything. If you haven't accepted everything, you're just sitting on the sidelines. I said no to that offer, meaning, 'Come, sit happily in opposition for 20 years and enjoy yourself.' I said no to that and aimed for power, and that's why I'm a target.

Özel also touched upon discussions regarding presidential candidacies, noting he had removed himself from the presidential equation to disrupt a "game." He pointed to Ekrem İmamoğlu and Mansur Yavaş as figures with significant public support, according to polls. He also voiced strong criticism against Uşak Mayor Özkan Yalım and judge Akın Gürlek, vowing not to forgive them for alleged threats and mistreatment of individuals and their families.

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I will not forgive Akın Gürlek, those who threaten innocent people and their families, or those who seize all assets earned with sweat over 60 years and say 'I'll do this if you sign this.' I will not forgive those who immediately resort to slander to save themselves by going further into this.