Ousted Turkish opposition leader Özel to form new party to challenge Erdogan

Ousted from his leadership of Turkey's main opposition party, former CHP chief Özgür Özel has declared his intention to form a new political party. Özel addressed supporters in Ankara, calling his forced departure from the Republican People's Party (CHP) a "historic turning point."

Özel, who led the social democratic CHP for two and a half years, was removed in May 2026 by a court ruling. He faces accusations of bribing delegates during the 2023 party congress. Özel denies these claims, asserting they are politically motivated attempts to undermine the elected leadership.

Under Özel's previous leadership, the CHP became the strongest force in local elections two years ago. Following his ouster, his predecessor Kemal Kilicdaroglu resumed leadership. Analysts suggest Kilicdaroglu may have been co-opted by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's AKP government, making him less of a threat in the 2028 presidential election.

With this new party formation, Özel aims for a "liberation strike." He plans to consult local party leaders and the party council before submitting the application next week. His stated goal is to establish the new party as the largest opposition force in the Turkish parliament. Özel indicated that while his core beliefs remain, he is forging a new path because others have been blocked, suggesting the move aligns with the party base's will, unlike Kilicdaroglu's return.

Experts anticipate a significant portion of CHP members will follow Özel. This move is seen as a response to the increasing pressure exerted by Turkey's politicized judiciary on the CHP.