Letter of Solidarity to Özgür on the Founding of Yeni Parti

Dear Özgür,

As Socialist International, we have closely followed with active solidarity in every step, your efforts for democracy, respect of human rights as well as the rule of law. You had to face huge challenges, with the imprisonment of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, the arrests of many other mayors elected by your party and finally with the «absolute Butlan» that nullified all the democratic decisions of previous Congresses.

You tried to face all these difficult moments with courage, always putting the collective interest above the personal one.

We understand how difficult it was to take the decision to continue your struggle, as requested by not only your legitimately elected representatives but also the grass roots, through the creation of the New Party. As a strong leader, you sensed that now is the moment to make a breakthrough since fundamental principles are violated.

Undoubtedly, this bold decision brings hope and mobilizes all the people who are fighting for our shared values.

As we have already decided as an organization, we will continue working closely together in this new promising endeavour.

Wishing a big success to the New Party,

In solidarity,

Pedro Sánchez Pérez-Castejón
President of the Socialist International