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The main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) in Türkiye is facing escalating internal turmoil as attention turns to the Sept. 15 court hearing over the party’s contested congress.
A potential nullity ruling could open the door for former chairman Kemal Kilicdaroglu to reclaim leadership, intensifying the clash between rival factions.
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According to a report by Turkish media, Kilicdaroglu’s office in Ankara has recently become a hub of political activity, drawing a steady stream of visitors.
Former and current provincial and district heads, as well as party assembly members, are said to have held talks with the former leader. Party sources suggest that many grassroots representatives, frustrated by pressure from the current leadership, may quickly shift allegiance to Kilicdaroglu if the court annuls the previous congress.
Reports indicate that Kilicdaroglu was also disturbed by the congress timetable announced in July, widely viewed as a move by the current leadership to preempt a possible court decision.
Neighborhood delegate elections began on Aug. 13 before the ruling, an action critics saw as an attempt to neutralize the effects of a nullity verdict.
Should Kilicdaroglu be reinstated on Sept. 15, he is reportedly planning to reset the congress process under a new timetable of his own, eventually leading the party into a regular congress. His camp also argues that if the court rules in favor of nullity, the extraordinary convention scheduled for Sept. 21 could be canceled by court order.
Addressing speculation about potential mass resignations, party insiders insist Kilicdaroglu would not try to persuade anyone to remain. “If someone resigns, Kilicdaroglu will not say ‘don’t go.’ He will not beg anyone to stay in the party,” one source noted.
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