Bülent Arınç reacts to CHP's protest: Calls on Özgür Özel

The Grand National Assembly of Türkiye (TBMM) is set to resume work tomorrow (October 1st) following a 70-day recess. As eyes turn to the opening of the fourth legislative year of the 28th term, the CHP has decided to stage a protest. CHP spokesperson Deniz Yücel announced that they would not welcome AKP Chairman and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, stating, "He has lost his legitimacy."

CHP Chairman Özgür Özel had previously said, "If we stand up and welcome him like a president, as we did last year, it is clear that he is not acting like one. If we sit and listen, it is clear what he is doing to us. This year, we are doing what has not been done before; when the president arrives, we will neither stand nor sit to welcome him." he had said.

BÜLENT ARINÇ REACTS TO CHP

Bülent Arınç, a former Speaker of the TBMM and a member of the AKP, reacted to the CHP's decision not to welcome Erdoğan.

In a statement on his X account, Arınç said, "My request to the esteemed CHP Chairman is to reverse this wrong decision and to be together under the roof of parliament on October 1st." he stated.

"I FIND THE DECISION WRONG"

Arınç's statement is as follows:

"It is stated that the CHP will not attend the opening meeting of the 4th Legislative Year of the 28th Term of the TBMM, which will be held on October 1st, in order to protest what they perceive as operations against CHP mayors and the party itself. I find this decision wrong.

According to the Constitution and the Rules of Procedure, the TBMM begins its legislative year on October 1st and convenes with a special agenda. Traditionally, our President may also deliver a speech if he wishes. This is one of the most important days for the Assembly. To date, all parties, regardless of their differing views or numerical strength, have participated in these sessions.

It is everyone's right to like or criticize the President; however, there should be no flaw in showing respect. The TBMM is the manifestation of the national will and the heart of democracy. It is the reason for the existence of political parties and members of parliament; it is the apple of the nation's eye.

"IT HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE"

With its decision not to attend, the CHP is effectively taking a stance against the Assembly, which damages the prestige of the institution. The CHP is a deep-rooted party, and it has never been seen before that the main opposition party would boycott the Assembly during opening sessions. We may criticize the President or the Speaker of the Assembly; however, we are also obligated to respect them. The TBMM itself is not the place to protest against them. You can express your objections and engage in democratic action at other times and in other settings.

I served as the Speaker of this supreme institution for two terms, spanning five years. During my tenure, my greatest priority was to enhance the reputation of the TBMM and its members. I have attended every invitation from our Assembly by rushing to be there. I have shown respect to that supreme institution.

My request to the esteemed CHP Chairman is to reverse this wrong decision and to be together under the roof of parliament on October 1st."

It is stated that the CHP will not attend the opening meeting of the 4th Legislative Year of the 28th Term of the TBMM, which will be held on October 1st, in order to protest what they perceive as operations against CHP mayors and the party itself. I find this decision wrong.…

— Bülent Arınç (@bulent_arinc) September 30, 2025

News Source: 12punto