CHP open to alliances, Özel says amid by-election push

ANKARA

Türkiye's main opposition leader on April 29 signaled openness to broad political cooperation as his Republican People’s Party (CHP) presses for a possible by-election amid tensions over investigations targeting municipalities.

"Citizens expect us to see the opposition united and together, even to form an alliance that transcends parties for the salvation of Türkiye, and to bring about a change of power that will provide solutions to its problems," CHP leader Özgür Özel said at an event in Ankara.

His remarks come as the CHP has stepped up its campaign for a by-election following renewed investigations and detentions involving local governments controlled by opposition parties.

Under Turkish law, a by-election is required if parliamentary vacancies reach 5 percent of the total number of lawmakers, or 30 seats. Currently, eight seats are vacant due to deaths and resignations.

"We will hold whichever hand we need to hold... Because we know that the hand we hold belongs to the tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, millions who have given their hearts to that party," Özel said.

"We are pursuing a path open to all alliances, all collaborations, and all working together so that Türkiye can achieve peace. Because today is a day for solidarity, not political competition."

Although the opposition could theoretically force a by-election by coordinating the resignation of at least 22 additional lawmakers, such a move would still require approval from the parliamentary General Assembly, where the ruling alliance holds a majority.

Özel said he has already begun outreach efforts, visiting 12 opposition parties and meeting with Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş last week. "We can take action together on many issues we have agreed upon," he said.

His push comes despite resistance from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who on April 6 rejected calls for an early vote. Türkiye's next general elections are scheduled for 2028.