Political drama in Turkey: Erdogan's bitter rivals form a new party

Ozgur Ozel and 90 lawmakers have left the CHP party and established the 'New Party', which has become the second-largest faction in parliament and the main opposition. The split stems from a court ruling that invalidated Ozel's election as CHP leader. The move may pose a threat to Erdogan but also ease his position in the short term.

Ozgur Ozel and 90 lawmakers have left the CHP party and established the 'New Party' (Yeni Parti), which immediately became the second-largest faction in the Turkish parliament and the main opposition. The historic split stems from a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated Ozel's election as CHP leader, after he defeated longtime chairman Kemal Kilicdaroglu. Ozel described the ruling as political interference and claimed the government is punishing CHP for its victory in the 2024 local elections. The government rejects these claims. The new party's platform includes a return to a parliamentary system, separation of powers, and rule of law, while also appealing to nationalist and conservative voters. Analysts note that the split may weaken the opposition in the short term and ease Erdogan's position, but also create a new threat in the long term.