CHP Leadership Meets After Aydın Defection, Vows Focus on Membership Drive

The Republican People’s Party (CHP) convened its first Central Executive Board (MYK) meeting after Aydın Metropolitan Mayor Özlem Çerçioğlu’s defection to the AKP.

One of the key topics was the political fallout in Aydın, but CHP leader Özgür Özel urged party officials not to let the issue dominate strategy discussions. “Do not allow this matter to consume our agenda,” he said.

Special Focus on Aydın

CHP officials echoed Özel’s stance, stressing the need to look beyond a single province. However, they confirmed a special membership campaign in Aydın as part of the party’s nationwide recruitment drive. “We cannot remain stuck on Aydın. We will open a special chapter there and win the city back in the next election,” said one senior figure.

No Withdrawal from Commission

Another major item was the party’s role in the National Solidarity, Brotherhood, and Democracy Commission. Despite grassroots objections, CHP officials emphasized their continued participation. “We have pointed to Parliament as the proper address from the start. We have no intention of withdrawing from the commission,” they stated.

Addressing Party Base Concerns

Some within the CHP acknowledged the difficulty of convincing their supporters. “Our base strongly opposes our presence in the commission, and at times it is hard to explain. But it is crucial we remain there. Without CHP, it cannot work. Our supporters must hear both the wrongs and the rights from us,” one official noted.

This approach highlights the party’s effort to balance internal dissent with its strategic goal of maintaining influence in national decision-making.