CHP to hold public rallies against govt’s executive presidency plans

ANKARA

The main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) will soon begin a series of public rallies against the government’s bid to change Turkey to a presidential system of government, saying planned constitutional amendments will bring about authoritarian rule and cause the division of Turkey. 

The CHP will begin its public rallies in the southern province of Adana on Dec. 3, party spokesperson Haluk Koç said on Nov. 17, adding that subsequent rallies will be held across the country. 

The announcement was made after the CHP convened an executive board meeting on Nov. 17 to focus on the presidential system debate. 

The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) delivered the draft of its favored constitutional amendment, including a shift to the presidential system, to the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) on Nov. 15.

The CHP is concerned that the new system will lead to “one-man rule” and further increase pressure on all opposition. 

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım said the MHP has not yet sent its response outlining its position on the AKP’s constitutional draft. 

“We are waiting. We will move after we receive their views,” Yıldırım said on Nov. 18.