CHP Official Accuses Media of 'FETÖ-like Trap' Over Paid Extras Allegations

An investigation by BirGün reporter Ebru Çelik has alleged that a large CHP membership event, attended by Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, was filled with paid extras. Hundreds of individuals from three different casting agencies were reportedly transported to the event in Sarıyer, with each participant receiving 950 lira. Many of these extras, who were unemployed, retired, or aspiring actors, stated they believed they were attending standard casting calls for film, television, or advertisements, not a political rally.

During the event, which lasted approximately three hours, the sourced individuals were reportedly instructed to chant slogans such as "The people's hope Kılıçdaroğlu," "Right, law, justice," and "The youth's hope Kılıçdaroğlu." They were also told to applaud and whistle. According to the report, these individuals were not permitted to leave the hall while Kılıçdaroğlu was speaking.

In response to the allegations, CHP Istanbul Provincial Chairman Gürsel Tekin held a press conference, adopting a tone and language often used by the ruling party. Tekin accused the media of setting a "FETÖ-like dirty trap" and targeting journalists. He defended the party's actions, stating that they had collected names due to limited hall capacity and that some young members requested transportation support due to the large numbers. Tekin insisted the party does not have the funds to spend on such activities and that they are fighting against "mud-slinging media operations."