Özgür Özel's normalization move: He announced his condition
CHP leader Özgür Özel emphasized in his speech in Manisa that the tension in political language affects society. Reiterating his message of normalization with Erdoğan, Özel criticized the government's polarizing political style.
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Speaking at an opening ceremony he attended in the Saruhanlı district of Manisa, CHP Chairman Özgür Özel brought up the effects of political language on society. Stating, "We must soften the language of politics because this tension also affects the citizens," Özel underlined that all segments must unite for Turkey to transform into a global giant.
Reminding CHP-run municipalities of the Atatürk era, Özel said, "We must turn toward development just as in the era of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk." Özel stated that competition should be limited only to elections.
ÖZGÜR ÖZEL'S "NORMALIZATION" CALL
In previous periods, Özgür Özel, who gave messages of normalization with President Erdoğan, had received backlash from his base.
This time, calling once again for the softening of politics, Özel expressed his discomfort with the ruling party's polarizing policies.
Explaining the background of this call in an interview with Deniz Zeyrek, Özel stated that the polarization in Turkey shows that citizens no longer have tolerance for one another. "The tension in the language of politicians leads to a greater division among the public," said Özel, adding that they will dedicate their energy to the citizens in the coming period.
“IT IS UNNECESSARY TO TENSION THE CITIZENS”
Recalling his party's hardline stance in the previous period, Özel stated that they had ended the boycott they initiated during the Saraçhane protests and opened a new page. Emphasizing that polarization in politics no longer carries much meaning in the eyes of the citizens, Özel said, "Creating this much tension harms the peace of society."
CONDITION FOR "NORMALIZATION" WITH ERDOĞAN
Critically attacking President Erdoğan's political style, Özel stated that the normalization process must begin with Erdoğan. Saying, "If Mr. Tayyip normalizes, we will normalize too," Özel called on the ruling party to use an inclusive language.
However, he pointed out that this process could only be possible if Erdoğan abandons his policy of polarization. "There is no need for them to normalize, because they feed on conflict," said Özel, arguing that as long as this attitude is not changed, a consensus will not be possible.