CHP's by-election strategy stirs up political corridors: 22 MPs preparing to resign

CHP Chairman Özgür Özel announced that he will visit Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş in the coming days with a by-election agenda. Özel stated, "We will also have a very ambitious move. We are in the days when the Constitution mandates a by-election." When asked by journalists, "What did you mean?" he replied, "We will announce it that day." Özel also stated that all steps will be taken to bring the ballot box to the people.

NOTABLE CLAIM IN ANKARA CORRIDORS

Özel's statements have led to various interpretations in Ankara's political corridors. According to a report by Sözcü, this move was evaluated as "a maneuver to force a by-election by vacating 30 seats in the Parliament."

CRITICAL NUMBER FOR BY-ELECTION: 30 SEATS

There are currently 8 vacant seats in the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM). According to Article 78 of the Constitution, this number must reach 30 for a by-election to be held. In this context, it is stated that the required number could be reached if 22 CHP MPs resign. If the Parliament accepts this situation, the election process is expected to be initiated within 3 months.

"PARTY RUNNING AWAY FROM THE BALLOT BOX" DEBATE

The assessment that parties voting against the potential resignation process would fall into a position of "not wanting the ballot box" is also being voiced in the corridors. Özel, who previously called on AKP Chairman and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan by saying, "If you are not afraid, bring the ballot box," stated, "There is also a stance that the Parliament Speaker needs to take regarding the by-election."