It was claimed there was tension between them... What does İmamoğlu think about the extraordinary congress in the CHP?

While discussions regarding the extraordinary congress process in the CHP continue, the views of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu on this process have begun to clarify.

According to an article by Nefes columnist Aytunç Erkin, names close to İmamoğlu stated that the decision to hold a congress was made too hastily, but that it must be managed correctly if certain political risks are involved.

Here are the highlights from Aytunç Erkin's article:

It was rumored in the lobbies that there was "tension" between CHP leader Özgür Özel and İmamoğlu during his visit to Silivri, and that the meeting was short. So, what is the truth? Names close to Ekrem İmamoğlu said:

"This congress decision was made very hastily. Ekrem Bey has thought this way from the very beginning. He tells Özgür Bey, 'It is a very hasty decision; I do not see a need to be in such a hurry. But of course, if there is a risk of a trustee being appointed, it is a decision that must be taken. We will make the best of it.' There is no tension between them that would cause them to cut their conversation short. On the contrary, he stated that they discussed the issues at length."

Now let's get to the congress.

Let us convey the information coming from İmamoğlu's circle:

"A signature campaign has now begun. We have April 23 and May 19 ahead of us. The process is developing rapidly. After these, the party will hold its ordinary congress, as its term expires in November 2026 at the latest. We are not electing congress delegates at the extraordinary congress. We will elect our delegates at the ordinary congress that will take place in November 2026 or earlier. Is there a chance of a local or general election before the ordinary congress? We can say that we see this as very unlikely."

"This congress is not being held at a time when the nation will take up swords and fight each other like warriors. It is being held during days when Turkey and the party are experiencing a collective attack. To repel this attack, we need an event that will unify the party and present the image of a proper congress."

"Mayor Ekrem is also of the opinion that 'Today is a day for unity and solidarity. We will continue on our path without dividing.'"