CHP leader Özgür Özel's 'early election' message: 'The people will decide'

CHP Chairman Özgür Özel made evaluations following the victory achieved in the March 31 local elections.

Speaking to the Sözcü newspaper, Özel commented on the local election results by saying, "We learned from our mistakes; they could not see the warning bells."

"IF THERE IS TO BE AN EARLY ELECTION..."

Stating that they will not demand an early election, CHP leader Özel spoke as follows:

"If there is to be an early election, the people will decide that again. I am not making a call for an early election. Ten months ago, six parties received 25 percent of the vote. If we say, '38 percent is my vote alone,' that would be arrogance. The vote of the Turkey alliance includes AK Party voters, MHP voters, and DEM voters. If I say, 'This is a vote of no confidence, go to an early election' after winning the election, I would be doing an injustice to the AK Party and MHP voters who trusted me."

Saying, "I have not lost hope for Hatay," Özel used the expression "It means we had shortcomings" regarding Kırklareli, which they lost.

"I WAS MOST HAPPY WITH THE SOMA RESULT"

CHP leader Özgür Özel explained that he was most happy about winning the election in his hometown of Soma, Manisa.

"DISAPPOINTMENT" REPROACH TO TUNÇ SOYER

Stating that he experienced his greatest disappointment regarding former İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Tunç Soyer, Özel said, "I called him, I explained. He himself saw that Cemil Tugay was one of the two names with the highest poll numbers. I offered him an overseas assignment; he said, 'I am honored, I am very happy,' then he left, and a few days later he made very bad statements. My greatest disappointment..."