Former CHP Izmir Chairman Joins New Party with 30 District Leaders
Translated from Turkish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Former Izmir Provincial Chairman Çağatay Güç resigned from the Republican People's Party (CHP) and announced his joining of the NEW Party.
- Güç cited severe economic and social crises in Turkey, criticizing the ruling party for leading the country into a
Çağatay Güç, formerly the provincial chairman of the Republican People's Party (CHP) in Izmir, has announced his resignation from the party and his intention to join the newly formed NEW Party. At a press conference, Güç detailed his reasons for leaving the CHP, citing the country's severe economic and social crisis and criticizing the ruling party's governance.
Güç stated that the nation is facing hardship, with farmers selling land due to debt, retirees struggling to survive, and workers not receiving fair compensation. He also noted the despair among youth and the demand for security and justice from women. He argued that the crisis extends beyond economics, asserting that the ruling party, despite having extensive power for 24 years, has driven the country into a "swamp" and bankruptcy. He emphasized that the issue is not just economic but also the destruction of trust in justice, institutions, meritocracy, and social solidarity.
"The government is not the state. Governments come and go, but the state remains, the nation remains, the Republic remains," Güç declared, stressing that the state belongs to the nation, not any political group. He called for a return of trust in each other, justice, institutions, and the future of children.
Expressing support for Özgür Özel, the leader of the NEW Party, Güç said the party was founded on the nation's hopes, driven by the enthusiasm of retirees, the determination of women, and the diligence of youth. He declared the NEW Party's aim is to take power and rescue the country from its current leadership. "The issue is not just the next election, but the next generation. It is about the homeland, the Republic, and the nation's independence," he added, noting that decisions made today will impact future generations.
Güç also highlighted Izmir's readiness to support the NEW Party, describing the city as a symbol of salvation and foundation. He stated that 30 district chairmen and their administrations have left the CHP to join the NEW Party, asserting that Izmir has always demonstrated exemplary work and will continue with the same spirit of solidarity in the new party. He believes the NEW Party, supported and owned by the nation, will help the country rise again.
Bugün itibarıyla 30 ilçe başkanımızın tamamı, ilçe yönetimleriyle birlikte Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi'nden ayrıldı
Originally published by Cumhuriyet in Turkish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.