Turkey's CHP faces potential split as Özgür Özel faction demands congress date

A significant rift is widening within Turkey's main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) as a faction led by Özgür Özel has collected enough delegate signatures to force an extraordinary party congress. This move challenges the leadership of Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, who was recently appointed "general chairman" by a court decision.

Özel and his supporters are reportedly preparing to confront Kılıçdaroğlu at the upcoming party group meeting. The expectation is that Özel will issue an ultimatum: either Kılıçdaroğlu sets a date for the congress, or Özel and his allies will "march on their own path." This phrasing hints at a potential party split, a move that has been discussed if the current leadership continues to resist calls for a congress.

Adding to the speculation, reports suggest that Özel's new party, should one be formed, could be named "Yürüyüş," meaning "March." This potential breakaway party is seen as a contingency plan. Özel himself has previously stated that his team is preparing "Plan B, C, D" to ensure the opposition is not left without a candidate in a snap election and that the CHP remains a parliamentary force, even if it means forming a new party or preparing an existing one.

Supporters of Özel are expected to attend the parliamentary group meeting in a show of solidarity. The situation highlights a deep internal struggle within the CHP as it navigates its leadership and future direction.