CHP Leader: “We Want a Terror-Free and Democratic Turkey”
Turkey's CHP leader Ozel backs peace process but demands democracy alongside security. At Istanbul rally marking mayor's detention, he calls for 'terror-free AND democratic Turkey,' vowing active opposition role in shaping post-conflict vision.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The leader of Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), Ozgur Ozel, has declared his party’s support for the ongoing peace process in Turkey but insisted that a truly sustainable future requires more than security guarantees. “We don’t just want a terror-free Turkey; we want a terror-free and democratic Turkey,” he said.
Ozel made the statement during the “People Defend the National Will – 100th Day Rally” held by CHP on Tuesday in Saraçhane, Istanbul, marking 100 days since the arrest of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (İBB) Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu.
Rally Amid Controversy Over İmamoğlu’s Detention
Addressing a large crowd from atop a bus outside the İBB building, Ozel recalled the continued protests against what he described as politically motivated legal actions targeting his party and its officials.
“We are not here just to hold rallies or gather in protest,” Ozel said. “We are here to act—and to achieve results.”
CHP Backs Peace, But Demands Democracy
Speaking on the current “Terror-Free Turkey” initiative, which aims to bring an end to decades of armed conflict, Ozel emphasized CHP’s long-standing position in favor of peace and unity.
“With our historical consistency, we in the CHP want terror to end, peace to prevail, and no more mothers to mourn. We want our country’s resources to serve retirees, workers, students, tradespeople, and farmers—not to be spent on war,” he declared.
However, Ozel cautioned against reducing the process to slogans. “Saying ‘Terror-Free Turkey’ is not enough. We want a terror-free and democratic Turkey,” he reiterated, drawing cheers from the crowd.
The CHP leader’s remarks signal the opposition’s intent to play a more assertive role in shaping the post-conflict vision of Turkey, one that prioritizes both peace and democratic freedoms.
