İmamoğlu Slams Kılıçdaroğlu Over Rally Remarks: “I Feel Betrayed”

Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu has broken his silence, responding sharply to former CHP leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu‘s criticism of recent political rallies. Speaking from Silivri Prison through journalist İsmail Saymaz, İmamoğlu expressed deep disappointment over what he perceives as betrayal by Kılıçdaroğlu.

“I feel a deep sense of betrayal,” said İmamoğlu. “It hurt me profoundly. I feel indescribably awful.”

Kılıçdaroğlu’s Opposition to Rallies Draws Harsh Rebuke

Kılıçdaroğlu recently stated, “I don’t think these rallies are appropriate,” sparking backlash from İmamoğlu, who has been a leading voice in the opposition’s fight for democracy and judicial independence.

“That comment was a huge disappointment. I can’t tolerate it,” İmamoğlu said, emphasizing his 16-year dedication to the CHP.

“If I’m Imprisoned, Kemal Bey Is My Accomplice”

Positioning himself as a long-time servant of the party and democracy, İmamoğlu directly linked his legal persecution to Kılıçdaroğlu’s leadership legacy.

“If I am a prisoner, still fighting for democracy and justice, and being declared guilty, then Kemal Bey is my biggest accomplice,” he stated.

Fracture Between Leaders Deepens

Recalling his final conversation with Kılıçdaroğlu, İmamoğlu accused the former leader of deviating from their earlier consensus.

“We didn’t part ways on such terms. What he said now cannot be accepted by conscience or loyalty,” İmamoğlu said.

When Kılıçdaroğlu asked him, “Aren’t our congresses clean?”, İmamoğlu had agreed — but urged him to affirm it publicly.

“Waiting for Court Decision Broke Me”

İmamoğlu revealed he attempted to arrange a reconciliation meeting through Mansur Yavaş, Vahap Seçer, and Engin Özkoç, only to be told by Kılıçdaroğlu, “Let’s wait for the court’s decision.”

“That response broke me inside,” İmamoğlu admitted.

“Defending the Butlan Doctrine Will Curse Your Legacy”

İmamoğlu issued a stark warning to those in CHP who support annulling the party congress:

“You’ll be remembered with shame. If you care about the name you pass on to your children, step back now.”

Accusations of Political Interference via Judiciary

Arguing that the government is trying to undermine CHP through judicial manipulation, İmamoğlu made it clear:

“CHP is not a party that will allow intrusions into its internal affairs. And our nation will not remain silent in the face of this pressure.”

“You Came Through Elections, You’ll Leave Through Elections”

Directing a message to the current administration, İmamoğlu underscored the inevitability of change:

“You came to power via elections, and you’ll leave the same way. This government will no longer rule Turkey.”

A Rallying Cry to CHP Members

Closing his message, İmamoğlu called on all CHP members to unite:

“This is beyond our party. It’s about democracy and our country. We must resist this judicial onslaught—together, with no ifs or buts.”