Turkey's Dikbayır confirms AK Party offer, met Erdoğan

Sakarya lawmaker Ümit Dikbayır has confirmed that he received an offer to join the ruling AK Party following his resignation from the main opposition CHP. Dikbayır shared a video statement detailing his interactions, explaining that he met with President and AK Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the presidential palace.

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This is not a decision I can make alone or immediately, Mr. President. I said I need to talk to my family, and I cannot make such a decision without consulting my colleagues, my team, and the people I represent.

Dikbayır stated that AK Party Konya lawmaker Ünal Karaman extended the invitation for him to meet with Erdoğan. He explained that his political upbringing dictated he accept the invitation from the President of Turkey, regardless of differing political views. "If the President of the Republic of Turkey invites you to talk, you go and meet," Dikbayır said.

During the meeting, Erdoğan personally offered Dikbayır a place in the AK Party. Dikbayır told the president that such a decision could not be made alone or immediately. He emphasized the need to consult with his family, long-time colleagues, and the people he represents. The possibility of joining the AK Party on August 14 was discussed if mutual assessments were positive.

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If the President of the Republic of Turkey invites you to talk, you go and meet.

Dikbayır acknowledged that he may have upset those who supported him and expected a certain political stance. He expressed regret for any communication errors and felt a responsibility to explain his actions. "I feel a responsibility to explain myself to the people who love me and expect a certain political stance from me," he stated, adding that he wanted to share his experiences and the truth with sincerity. He concluded by saying the decision rests with the people.

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I feel a responsibility to explain myself to the people who love me and expect a certain political stance from me.