On behalf of the Presidency of the Socialists, Democrats and Greens Group within the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, we express our deep concern and serious worry regarding the decision of the Turkish judiciary on 21 May to depose the leadership of the Republican People’s Party, CHP.
This decision raises major concerns about the state of democracy, political pluralism, and the independence of the judiciary in Türkiye. The removal, through judicial intervention, of the leadership of the party that won the last local elections risks undermining the will of party members, obstructing democratic competition and citizens’ right to elect their representatives, and further restricting the space for legitimate political opposition.
At a time when democratic institutions must be protected, such a decision sends an alarming signal. We call for full respect for the rule of law, due process, and the right of political parties to freely determine their leadership without undue interference.
We stand in solidarity with CHP leader Özgür Özel, who was elected four times in ordinary and extraordinary party congresses, and with all those committed to democracy, fundamental freedoms, and political pluralism in Türkiye.
