Özgür Özel Thanks Political Leaders After Re-Election

After securing another term as the leader of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) during the party’s 39th Ordinary Congress, Özgür Özel shared a detailed message of gratitude on social media. His post, which acknowledged congratulatory calls and messages from numerous political leaders and organizations, quickly became a topic of political discussion—notably for its lack of any reference to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Özel’s message was framed as both a gesture of appreciation and a broader statement on the political direction he hopes Turkey will adopt in the new period. After listing a wide range of political figures who reached out with congratulatory messages, he emphasized his party’s vision for a more inclusive and less polarized political climate.

A Message Focused on Dialogue—and an Omission That Stood Out

The CHP leader expressed gratitude to counterparts across the political spectrum, including leaders from the DEM Party, MHP, İYİ Party, DEVA, Saadet, Gelecek, Yeniden Refah, TİP, EMEP, DP, BBP, Zafer Party, and several others. While the message highlighted broad interparty communication, the absence of any mention of President Erdoğan sparked conversation in political circles, considering such acknowledgments are often customary after major party congresses.

Özel wrote that the party’s core wish for the new era is a political environment that prioritizes public needs over divisive rhetoric. He stated:

“Our sincere wish for the new period is a Turkey where the course of politics is oriented toward the needs and expectations of the people; a Turkey without conflict, polarization, or demonization.”

His full message, shared publicly, emphasized unity and democratic cooperation.

Özel’s Full Thank-You Message in English Translation

Özel published the following statement on social media:

“Due to my re-election as Chairman at our 39th Ordinary Congress, I thank those who conveyed their congratulations by calling, sending messages, or sharing posts on social media; Co-Chairs of the DEM Party, Ms. Tülay Hatimoğulları and Mr. Tuncer Bakırhan, Chairman of the Nationalist Movement Party Mr. Devlet Bahçeli, Chairman of the İYİ Party Mr. Müsavat Dervişoğlu, Chairman of the DEVA Party Mr. Ali Babacan, Chairman of the Felicity Party Mr. Mahmut Arıkan, Chairman of the Future Party Mr. Ahmet Davutoğlu, Chairman of the New Welfare Party Mr. Fatih Erbakan, Chairman of the Workers’ Party of Turkey Mr. Erkan Baş, Chairman of the Labour Party Mr. Seyit Aslan, Chairman of the Democrat Party Mr. Gültekin Uysal, Chairman of the Great Unity Party Mr. Mustafa Destici, Chairman of the Victory Party Mr. Ümit Özdağ, Chairman of the Independent Turkey Party Mr. Hüseyin Baş, and Chairman of the Key Party Mr. Yavuz Ağıralioğlu. I extend my gratitude to our sister parties abroad who conveyed their messages of solidarity, and also to the esteemed presidents of our unions, chambers, institutions, and organizations.”

Commitment to Democracy, Justice, and Social Cohesion

Özel continued by underlining that the CHP remains committed to its political path despite significant challenges. He emphasized that the party operates independently of all power centers except the national will. Presenting the CHP as a core pillar of the country’s democratic landscape, he stated that the movement for broader rights and freedoms would continue:

“The Republican People’s Party, which became the leading party in the last elections, stands in solidarity with all democrats and all political parties that believe in democracy. The path to overcoming all the difficulties Turkey faces lies in social peace, unshakable brotherhood, permanent democracy, and complete justice.”

He reiterated his vision for a political atmosphere free from hostility and division:

“Our sincere wish for the new period is a Turkey where the course of politics is oriented toward the needs and expectations of the people; a Turkey without conflict, polarization, or demonization.”

A New Political Tone Amid Rising Expectations

The message arrives at a critical moment for the CHP, which entered a new phase of leadership after securing strong results in recent elections. Özel’s emphasis on dialogue, unity, and democratic norms appears designed to position the party as a stabilizing force. Political analysts note that the deliberate omission of President Erdoğan from the thank-you list may signal a carefully crafted communication strategy aimed at highlighting existing political tensions—but without overt confrontation.

As the CHP moves forward, Özel’s leadership will be closely watched, particularly as he has recently stated he would resign if the CHP does not emerge as the leading party in the next general elections. The new term begins with heightened expectations and a renewed focus on cross-party engagement, democracy, and justice.