ADVERTISEMENT
Politics
Kılıçdaroğlu's Team Denies Claims of Özel's Removal from Group Leadership
Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu's team has refuted claims that Özgür Özel was removed from his position as the Group Leader in the Turkish Grand National Assembly.
Jun 28, 2026 | 3 min read | By Wadi News Editorial Team
Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu's team has recently faced allegations regarding the removal of Özgür Özel from his position as the Group Leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP) in the Turkish Grand National Assembly. These claims emerged following a court ruling that reinstated Kılıçdaroğlu as the party leader after a period of uncertainty. Reports suggested that Kılıçdaroğlu's team had initiated steps to strip Özel of his title as Group Leader, which would have significant implications for the party's internal dynamics.
In response to these allegations, Müslim Sarı, Kılıçdaroğlu's spokesperson, took to social media to categorically deny the claims. He stated that there was no official communication from the CHP headquarters to the Turkish Grand National Assembly regarding Özel's removal. Sarı emphasized that the reports circulating in the media were unfounded and did not reflect the reality of the situation. This denial comes at a time when the CHP is navigating through a complex political landscape, following the court's decision that has led to a division within the party.
The rumors of Özel's potential replacement by Faik Öztrak, a member of parliament from Tekirdağ, have also been circulating. However, Sarı's statements have aimed to quell such speculation, asserting that the party remains united under Kılıçdaroğlu's leadership. The internal strife within the CHP has raised concerns about the party's future, especially with Özel asserting that the party has been effectively sidelined by what he describes as a 'palace coup'.
As the political climate continues to evolve, the CHP is preparing for an ordinary congress process set to begin in the first week of September. This upcoming congress will be crucial for the party as it seeks to solidify its leadership and address the divisions that have surfaced in recent months. The situation remains fluid, and both Kılıçdaroğlu and Özel are expected to play pivotal roles in shaping the party's direction moving forward.
Background on CHP's Leadership Crisis
The Republican People's Party (CHP) has been facing significant challenges in its leadership structure following a court ruling that declared the previous leadership invalid. This ruling has led to a power struggle between Kılıçdaroğlu and Özel, both of whom have strong support within the party. The internal conflict has raised questions about the party's unity and its ability to effectively oppose the ruling government. As the party prepares for its upcoming congress, the focus will be on how it can reconcile these differences and present a united front to its supporters and the public.