Key facts
- Opposition leader Ozgur Ozel is launching a new political party named Yeni Parti.
- A court removed Ozel as chairman of the Republican People's Party (CHP) in May.
- The CHP has faced months of legal pressure and internal divisions.
- Ozel's new party is expected to attract significant voter support, potentially challenging President Erdogan.
- The opposition split is seen as potentially beneficial for Erdogan in upcoming elections.
Turkish opposition leader Ozgur Ozel announced on Tuesday that he will launch a new political party, Yeni Parti, following his removal as chairman of the Republican People's Party (CHP) by a court in May. This development deepens a split within the country's main opposition, which has been targeted by investigations and arrests of mayors on corruption charges.
The court's decision annulled the congress that brought Ozel to power, reinstating former chairman Kemal Kilicdaroglu. Kilicdaroglu has reportedly focused on removing Ozel's allies, leading to defections to the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). Many believe Kilicdaroglu's return was supported by the government to fracture the opposition.
Reports suggest a large majority of CHP's parliamentary members and provincial chairs are expected to join Ozel's new movement, potentially leaving Kilicdaroglu with a significantly weakened party. Polling indicates Ozel's new party could garner substantial support, potentially surpassing the AKP and presenting a strong challenge to President Erdogan in the 2028 elections.
However, the opposition's fragmentation could also benefit Erdogan, especially if multiple opposition candidates run for president. The emergence of Ozel's party, free from the CHP's historical baggage, poses a long-term risk to Erdogan's political dominance if it successfully appeals across the political spectrum and offers credible solutions for the country's institutions and economy.