It was claimed he would be an independent candidate: Statement from Gürsel Tekin

Former Istanbul Deputy Gürsel Tekin had announced his resignation from the Republican People's Party (CHP).

Arguing that his party had moved away from its identity as an Ataturkist and social democratic party, Tekin stated, "The fundamental principles of the Republican People's Party are contained in its charter and program. Unfortunately, over time, the CHP has been distanced from its identity as an Ataturkist and social democratic party that aims for contemporary civilization, seeks to be in power in Turkey, and serves the people; it has transformed into a structure where cronyism, and relationships with spouses, friends, and relatives are decisive at every level, rather than a spirit of camaraderie formed by ideology, principles, or thought."

Following his resignation, it was claimed that Tekin would run as an independent candidate for the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.

WILL HE BE A CANDIDATE?

Speaking to Gerçek Gündem regarding the claims about him, Tekin stated the following:

"I will absolutely not be an independent candidate for the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. I had not made a request regarding Esenyurt either; they had brought me an offer on this matter. However, they did not provide any information on whether this would happen or not, and they did not tell me that I was not their candidate. They did not contact me in any way afterward. I have also been unable to reach anyone at the headquarters for a month."

News Source: 12punto