Kılıçdaroğlu to chair CHP group meeting amid leadership speculation

Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu is set to preside over the Republican People's Party (CHP) parliamentary group meeting on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. The announcement was made by Kılıçdaroğlu's press advisor, Sönmez, confirming his leadership role for the upcoming session.

This confirmation arrives amidst considerable interest and speculation within the party regarding the leadership of the group meeting. It was previously reported that the newly elected CHP leader, Özgür Özel, had canceled his Manisa program to attend the parliamentary session on Tuesday, adding to the anticipation surrounding the event.

Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş addressed the situation, stating that the legal framework clearly permits the CHP's leader to speak at their party's group meeting. Kurtulmuş emphasized that there is no legislative provision preventing Kılıçdaroğlu from presiding, indicating that the party must proceed according to existing regulations.

The situation highlights a period of transition and potential power dynamics within the CHP, as the party navigates the leadership change. Kılıçdaroğlu's decision to chair the meeting, despite the election of a new leader, underscores the ongoing developments within the party's structure and its parliamentary operations.