CHP Leader Özel Backs November 2025 Elections, Says Party Is Fully Prepared

CHP Chair Özgür Özel has expressed his party’s readiness for an early election, stating that they would support a vote held in November 2025. In a wide-ranging interview on Halk TV, Özel stressed the party’s organizational strength, particularly in election security and grassroots mobilization.

“We want our candidate by our side and the ballot box in front of us,” Özel declared, underscoring that the Republican People’s Party (CHP) is ready for the field and the polls.

Support for Early Elections—Under Clear Terms

While supporting a potential election as early as this November, Özel drew a clear line on constitutional maneuvering, saying the party would oppose any attempt to shift the election date by only a few months to circumvent term limits for President Erdoğan.

“If the vote happens this November or by next April at the latest, we support it. But we won’t endorse tactical moves just to let Erdoğan run again,” he warned.

180,000 Volunteers Ready to Secure the Vote

Özel highlighted the CHP’s nationwide election readiness, with 180,000 volunteers prepared to monitor nearly all 191,000 ballot boxes across Turkey.

“They’re not just showing up on election day—they’re already working, neighborhood by neighborhood, voter by voter,” he said, adding that the party has built a “ballot security army.”

Imamoğlu Campaign Nears 20 Million Signatures

The party’s momentum is also visible in its signature campaign supporting Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu’s candidacy, which Özel said is approaching 20 million signatures, with a target of 27 million.

“We’re not just gathering names—we’re sending a message: this many people no longer trust Erdoğan,” Özel explained.

One party member from Tekirdağ collected 10,000 signatures on his own, proof, Özel said, of the party’s grassroots power.

Condemns Arrest of Journalist Fatih Altaylı

Özel also spoke out against the recent arrest of journalist Fatih Altaylı, calling it an attack on freedom of expression. He criticized what he sees as a broken justice system, where those who confess to crimes walk free while critics are jailed.

“If a journalist is imprisoned for expressing an opinion, democracy ceases to exist,” he said.

Calls for Transparency in İmamoğlu Trial

Regarding Ekrem İmamoğlu’s ongoing trial, Özel demanded that the process be transparent and broadcast live on TRT, the state broadcaster.

“Let the public see the truth. Let the difference between CHP and AKP be clear—not through rumors, but in front of the cameras,” he urged.

No Summer Break: CHP to Continue Rallies Nationwide

When asked if the party would take time off over the summer, Özel responded firmly:

“There is no vacation. The schedule is full. Monday: MYK, Tuesday: parliamentary group, Wednesday: rallies, Thursday: Silivri, Friday: Ankara.”

CHP, he said, will remain active in the field all summer, with rallies and local engagement continuing through late July.