Özgür Özel speaks from Çorum: 'I will give my head if necessary, but I will not bow'

Continuing his field work ahead of the by-elections, CHP Group Chairman Özgür Özel met with citizens in Çorum as part of his visit program. Having held various meetings in Tokat and Gümüşhane yesterday, Özel attended programs held in Çorum and Nevşehir today.

Özel's first stop in Çorum was the 1st International Alevism Workshop Congress and the Rıza Şehri Alevi Souls Meeting. Speaking there, Özel drew attention to the problems that Alevis have been voicing for many years and emphasized equal citizenship.

"THIS COUNTRY OWES YOU A LOT"

In his speech, Özel listed the problems faced by Alevis and drew attention to the importance of the principle of equal citizenship.

Stating that Alevis cannot benefit from public services equally, Özel criticized the fact that while mosques are accepted as places of worship, cemevis are not evaluated under the same status. Noting that viewing Alevism as a cultural element rather than a belief system is also a significant problem, Özel said this approach must change.

Özel stated, "We know that this country owes you a lot. Not receiving the same service. Recognizing the mosque as a place of worship but not recognizing cemevis as places of worship. Viewing Alevism as a culture, not a belief. Attaching Alevism to the Ministry of Culture. We see how much a CHP government is needed from these small examples. On the first day I took the podium as group chairman, I said equal citizenship."

"WE ARE UNDER ATTACK FROM ALL SIDES"

In the continuation of his speech, Özel also touched upon recent political developments and the debates surrounding the CHP.

Stating that their party is facing pressure and threats, Özel emphasized that they will not take a step back during this process.

Özel said, "We are under attack from four sides today. They are trying to turn us away from our path with threats and pressure, but as long as you are here, I will not turn from my path. I will give my head if necessary, but I will not bow to them."

"THE ISSUE OF NULLITY IS NOT AN INTERNAL CHP MATTER"

Touching upon the issue of absolute nullity that continues to be debated within the CHP, Özel stated that this matter should not be considered an internal party issue.

Özel said, "The issue of nullity is not an internal CHP matter. It is not between us. It is between the Palace and the will of the nation. Therefore, instead of falling out with each other over this nullity issue, we will all fight together against those who disregard the ballot box."

"I WILL NOT GIVE UP THE STRUGGLE"

In the final part of his speech, Özel gave messages of unity and solidarity, referencing the teachings of Hacı Bektaş Veli.

Özel stated, "I will be a companion in watering the soil sown by Hacı Bektaş. Even if I am hurt, I will not hurt others, but I will not give up the struggle. We will be together in the most beautiful and fairest days. You have stood by us, and we will walk this path together with you. We will reach our destination sooner or later. We will succeed, we will win."

News Source: 12punto