First comment from CHP on Zafer Party's decision not to attend Saraçhane rally
The Zafer Party has decided not to attend the rally organized by the CHP in Saraçhane. CHP's Umut Akdoğan responded to Ümit Özdağ's decision by saying, "May he be well."
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On the 100th day of the operation targeting the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the Zafer Party decided not to attend the rally organized by the CHP in Saraçhane. Party leader Ümit Özdağ explained the reasons behind this decision.
In his statement, Özdağ noted that the controversy sparked by a cartoon published in Leman magazine provided an opportunity for provocation by extreme elements of the ruling bloc. For this reason, he stated that the Zafer Party did not want to be part of such a provocation. He also emphasized that the rally was organized by the CHP and that their party had not been invited.
Özdağ said, "As the Zafer Party, we wish the CHP success in the struggle for the rule of law and democracy. However, not attending the rallies of other parties should not be a cause for accusation." Stating that they would continue to defend the legal rights of Ekrem İmamoğlu and other mayors, Özdağ added that they plan to visit the Silivri Penal Institution next week.
CHP Ankara Deputy Umut Akdoğan, speaking on a program he attended on Halk TV regarding Özdağ's decision, said, "May he be well, what can I say. Solidarity in difficult days is important. May Ümit Hoca also be well."