Historic Decision in the CHP: Court Rules “Absolute Nullity”
This article was translated automatically from Turkish. Türkçe orijinal ›
A notable ruling has been issued in the CHP convention case, which has dominated the political agenda in Turkey. The 36th Civil Chamber of the Ankara Regional Court of Appeals ruled that the Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) 38th Ordinary Convention, held in 2023, was “absolutely null and void.”
Along with this ruling, the court ordered the provisional removal from office of CHP Chairman Özgür Özel and the current party leadership, and ruled that the leadership in place prior to the convention should be reinstated. In this context, it was stated that Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu and the previous members of the Party Council would resume their duties.
What Was the Court’s Rationale?
In its ruling, the court stated that the CHP’s 38th Ordinary Congress, held on November 4–5, 2023, “took place in a manner contrary to the principles of internal party democracy, equality, and free will.” Additionally, the ruling stated:
- The 2023 convention was annulled,
- All ordinary and extraordinary congresses held after that date were declared invalid,
- A return to the leadership in place prior to the convention.
Turmoil Within the CHP
It was reported that there was extraordinary activity at the CHP Headquarters following the decision. In initial statements from party sources, it was argued that the decision was legally controversial, and it was stated that an appeal process would be initiated with a higher court.
A New Era on the Political Agenda
The decision caused a major stir not only within the CHP but also in Turkish politics. Legal experts and political commentators assess that the process will continue in the coming days with new legal appeals and political debates.
