Statement on the developments affecting Republican People's Party (CHP) in Türkiye

The Socialist International, following the unanimous decision of the extraordinary meeting of the Ethics Committee that met on 27 May 2026, and taking into account that:

· The organisation has a long and productive relationship with the CHP member party of Türkiye and has collaborated over the years with many previous CHP leaders, including Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu.

· The SI has actively participated in and monitored the last Congresses of CHP, where Özgür Özel was elected leader, witnessing that the procedures were democratic and inclusive.

Noting that:

· Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, who chose not to stand against Özgür Özel in the last Congresses, has a significant historical responsibility regarding the handling of the outcome of the “Butlan” decision nullifying the previous Congresses and the elected leadership of the party.

· And having considered all existing elements of this dramatic situation affecting one of our member parties, also taking into account similar precedents in the organisation, the SI will continue to recognise Özgür Özel and the democratically elected leadership of CHP until the case is resolved in an acceptable and consensual way.

The Socialist International makes an appeal to Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu to convene an immediate extraordinary Congress that will be organised transparently, democratically, inclusively, and without disciplinary procedures that may be perceived as factionally motivated.

The Socialist International will continue monitoring the developments associated with this unfounded “Butlan” decision and expresses its full solidarity with Özgür Özel in these very challenging moments.