CHP leader Özgür Özel calls out to Bahçeli: Reminded him of the past... 'We would like to meet again'

CHP Chairman Özgür Özel evaluated the recent remarks by MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli that emphasize the rule of law and democracy. Speaking to Euronews, Özel described these remarks as "positive and noteworthy," and issued an open call to Bahçeli, saying, "We would truly desire to meet with Mr. Bahçeli again on the side of democracy."

Reminding that they stood together against the AKP in the past, Özel said, "We did not change sides. We continue to stand against anti-democratic practices. The MHP, however, while once on the same side, has now moved to the opposite side. If we meet on the same line again, we would be pleased."

''I HOPE HE SINCERELY DEFENDS DEMOCRACY''

Stating that it will become clear over time whether Bahçeli's recent emphasis on democracy is sincere, Özel said, "I hope he truly defends democracy."

''IF THE UNIONS SAY TAKSIM, I WILL GO TO TAKSIM''

Making evaluations regarding May Day, Labor Day, Özel emphasized that the decision on the location of the celebrations belongs to the unions, not political parties.

"As the CHP Chairman, I cannot decide where May Day will be celebrated. This decision belongs to the unions. Wherever they deem appropriate, we will be there alongside the workers," said Özel, adding:

"If the unions say Taksim, I will go to Taksim. Since Kadıköy is currently designated, we will be there. But wherever it is, we stand with labor."

REACTION TO Kanal İstanbul

Özel also criticized the government's stance on the Kanal İstanbul project with harsh words. Stating that the project was not built for Turkey but for Arab capital, Özel said:

"Tayyip Erdoğan sold a dream of a new strait to the sheikhs and administrators of Qatar and other Arab countries who are fond of the Bosphorus. Advertisements for apartments via Kanal İstanbul are airing on Qatari and Arab television channels alongside Erdoğan's photo. That is why Erdoğan wants to accelerate the project."

''İMAMOĞLU HAS BECOME THE SYMBOL OF RESISTANCE''

The CHP leader stated that the biggest obstacle in front of the project is Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Reminding that the General Manager of İSKİ was detained due to demolition decisions, Özel said, "İmamoğlu is both Erdoğan's political rival and the person who puts a spoke in the wheel of his economic order. Erdoğan wants to get rid of him and his colleagues."

Özgür Özel also shared current data regarding the campaign his party launched with the demand for early elections. Stating that they have collected 12 million signatures so far, Özel announced that their target is 28 million.