Detained Mayor’s Defiance: ‘Democracy Will Prevail’

The police blockade of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) Istanbul Provincial Headquarters continues to spark criticism both within the party and across the public. The heavy security presence surrounding the building has been widely described as an unprecedented move, deepening concerns about political freedoms in Turkey.

One of the latest voices to condemn the blockade came from Şişli Mayor Resul Emrah Şahan, who is currently under detention. Using his social media account, Şahan reassured supporters that the party’s struggle and hope remain intact.

“Let no one doubt our hope and our struggle. Our will cannot be taken,” he declared.

“Our Democracy Tradition Has Become Part of the Nation”

Şahan’s statement drew on Turkey’s republican and democratic legacy, linking today’s crisis with a century-long tradition of political resistance and sovereignty.

“In 1923, we founded this Republic together. We grew our struggle for national sovereignty and independence with democracy. For over a century, this democratic tradition has become an inseparable part of our nation,” he wrote.

Highlighting CHP’s electoral victories, Şahan continued:
“We were nourished by this tradition; we won Istanbul in 2019, and in 2024 we became the first party, winning our people’s hope. We will win again, together. We will make democracy and the people’s will prevail. Let no one doubt our hope and our struggle. Our will cannot be taken. Our democracy and Republic will triumph not against the people’s will, but with the people’s will.”

Political Context: CHP Headquarters Surrounded

The blockade began after a court decision appointed Gürsel Tekin as trustee to CHP’s Istanbul branch, a move that has been widely rejected by party members. Police have since surrounded the provincial building, preventing lawmakers, officials, and citizens from entering.

Party leaders have described the action as unlawful and politically motivated, while rights advocates argue that using law enforcement to restrict political party activity sets a dangerous precedent.

No Timeline for Lifting the Blockade

As of now, no official statement has been made regarding when the police blockade will be lifted. Reports suggest that CHP executives are continuing negotiations to resolve the situation, but the heavy police presence remains in place.

The standoff has become symbolic of broader debates in Turkey about the rule of law, political autonomy, and democratic accountability.

A Message of Defiance

Şahan’s remarks, made despite his detention, add to the growing chorus of opposition figures framing the blockade as more than a partisan dispute. His words “Our will cannot be taken” reflect a determination to resist what is perceived as an attempt to weaken both the party and the democratic process.

Conclusion: Democracy in the Balance

The blockade of the CHP’s Istanbul Provincial Headquarters has turned into a flashpoint for political tensions in Turkey. With detained leaders like Resul Emrah Şahan publicly vowing that “our will cannot be taken,” the standoff underscores both the fragility and resilience of Turkey’s democratic tradition.

As negotiations continue and uncertainty lingers, the situation has evolved into more than a party conflict, it is increasingly seen as a test of the nation’s commitment to democratic values.