CHP Internal Crisis: Corruption Allegations Split Opposition

Internal Turmoil Deepens Within Türkiye’s Main Opposition CHP

The Republican People’s Party (CHP), Türkiye’s main opposition, is entering a period of intensified internal conflict as corruption allegations against several party mayors trigger public criticism from former lawmakers and past leadership figures.

The latest tensions were sparked by the indictment of former Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu, which prompted a group of senior ex-lawmakers—and eventually former party chair Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu—to urge the current leadership to address the claims instead of dismissing them as politically motivated.

Former Lawmakers Call for "Clean Politics"

On Monday, 17 former CHP lawmakers published a letter addressed to current party chair Özgür Özel, calling on the leadership to uphold transparency and investigate all members accused of bribery, corruption or similar misconduct.

The group emphasized that CHP traditionally maintained strict internal ethics and must not ignore criminal allegations involving its own members.

They proposed forming an intraparty committee to conduct transparent investigations and apply disciplinary action where necessary.

Their letter followed a similar appeal made last week by 10 former lawmakers aligned with Kılıçdaroğlu.

Kılıçdaroğlu's Video Reignites Factional Divide

On Nov. 22, former CHP Chair Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu released a sharply worded video criticizing the party's stance.

He argued that CHP "cannot be associated with corruption or bribery" and must "purify itself" to preserve credibility.

His remarks triggered backlash among some CHP members, who responded with personal attacks on social media—highlighting the widening rift between the party's current leadership and its former chair.

Kılıçdaroğlu has previously challenged the legitimacy of the 2023 intraparty election, in which Özel ousted him. Media speculation has intensified about a potential comeback, although he denies seeking a return.

CHP Prepares for Crucial Congress

The internal turmoil comes just days before the party's 39th Ordinary Congress, set for Nov. 28–30 in Ankara. Major structural and leadership adjustments are expected.

According to Anadolu Agency:

• Özgür Özel is expected to run unopposed for another term.
• A significantly revised "key list" is anticipated, signaling shifts in internal power dynamics.
• The Central Executive Board may be reorganized, with several portfolios merged or removed.
• The CHP is considering discontinuing its Shadow Cabinet model.

Since assuming leadership after the contentious 38th Congress, Özel has overseen a broad restructuring effort. Over 400 members—many linked to Kılıçdaroğlu—were referred to the disciplinary board in the first 10 months of his term.

A Party at a Crossroads

The growing dispute between reformist and traditionalist wings threatens to overshadow CHP's preparations for upcoming political challenges.

With a critical congress ahead and internal mistrust deepening, the party faces mounting pressure to unify or risk prolonged instability.