New statement from CHP Chair Özel before the trial: 'Stop persecuting us'

CHP Chair Özgür Özel spoke to journalists as he left the Yas-ı Matem (Mourning) fast gathering with Alevi opinion leaders.

Özgür Özel stated that they are awaiting a decision from the court just hours before the hearing regarding the 38th CHP Congress.

Özel said, "Our hope is this: Whatever decision that court is going to make, let them make it tomorrow. Because that court is process-oriented, not result-oriented.

The goal is to create controversy around Turkey's leading party. Let the controversy end; let them make whatever decision they will tomorrow.

We are ready for whatever decision comes. Stop persecuting us now.

But this country needs to talk about unemployment, hunger, poverty, and the hopelessness of the youth. People have demands for justice.

We need to talk about these demands for justice. Let no one drag us into an absurd debate by setting these aside," he said.