European media closely monitors absolute nullity ruling against CHP

The court's decision in Turkey to declare the Republican People's Party's congress held three years ago invalid has made a significant impact in the European press. Newspapers and television stations in Europe have highlighted this development as the “removal of the main opposition leader from office.”

Germany's national broadcaster ZDF drew attention to recent judicial interventions against the CHP, stating, “For more than a year, the judiciary in Turkey has been taking harsh measures regarding the CHP and its members.” ZDF also pointed to the conflicts within the party leadership, reporting that factional struggles continue around Kılıçdaroğlu and Özel.

The following assessments stood out in ZDF's analysis: “Kılıçdaroğlu held the role of main opposition leader for over a decade and was defeated by Erdoğan in the 2023 election. Subsequently, leadership passed to Özel, and an attempt was made to set a new direction for the party. Despite this, rumors were circulating in the corridors that Kılıçdaroğlu had a desire to re-emerge.”

The ARD channel also touched upon the internal debates and external pressures, writing: “The CHP is facing both internal struggles and pressure from the judiciary. The legal process was initiated by former CHP members. According to the decision, Kılıçdaroğlu will temporarily serve as leader again.”

IMPORTANT COMMENTARY IN THE GERMAN PRESS

Handelsblatt, one of Germany's major economic newspapers, devoted extensive coverage to the developments, highlighting political scientist Berk Esen's assessment that “This is a dark day in Turkish political history.” The newspaper also noted that the CHP has been under serious pressure for over a year and that the party views itself as an institution targeted for political motives.

The newspaper Die Zeit, known for its political coverage, pointed out that Erdoğan's election chances have increased following the absolute nullity ruling. The newspaper's analysis stated, “The removal of Özel strengthens the possibility of Erdoğan's re-election. The CHP had held a slight lead over the ruling AK Party in polls for some time.”

Bild, one of Germany's high-circulation newspapers, stated that the court reached this decision based on allegations that some delegates at the congress had cast votes through bribery. Bild also emphasized the turmoil in financial markets, writing that trading on the Istanbul Stock Exchange was automatically halted following a six percent drop.

The decision in question has been among the most important topics on the agenda not only in Germany but also in the press in Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

News Source: 12punto