Court Reverses Ruling on CHP’s 38th Congress Case: Trial Will Proceed Under Political Parties Law
chp2
A Turkish court has overturned a previous decision that deemed it lacked jurisdiction in a case related to the Republican People’s Party (CHP) and its 38th Ordinary Congress. The Ankara 3rd High Criminal Court ruled on June 30, 2025, that the Ankara 26th Criminal Court of First Instance’s non-jurisdiction ruling was invalid, clearing the way for the trial to proceed.
Case Background: Charges Under Political Parties Law
According to the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, a lawsuit had been filed against several individuals in connection with the CHP’s 38th Congress. The charges involve alleged violations of Article 112 of the Political Parties Law, which pertains to irregularities or illegal conduct during party congresses or internal elections.
The case was initially submitted to the 26th Criminal Court of First Instance, which ruled that it did not have jurisdiction. However, this decision was appealed, and the 3rd High Criminal Court has now officially reversed it, meaning the proceedings will move forward.
Official Statement by the Prosecutor’s Office
“In the case filed with the Ankara 26th Criminal Court of First Instance regarding suspects accused of violating Article 112 of the Political Parties Law during CHP’s 38th Congress, the court’s non-jurisdiction ruling has been overturned by the Ankara 3rd High Criminal Court as of June 30, 2025. Respectfully announced to the public.”
Legal Significance
The decision underscores the sensitivity of internal party governance in Türkiye, especially as opposition parties like CHP prepare for future elections. Violations under Article 112 may involve issues such as procedural misconduct, manipulation of delegate lists, or irregularities in voting mechanisms, all of which can have serious implications for party transparency and democratic legitimacy.