First reactions to Özgür Özel's new party move: Messages from Kılıçdaroğlu, Davutoğlu, and Karalar

Following Özgür Özel's announcement at the group meeting on July 21, where he bid farewell to the CHP and stated, "We are establishing our new party," the first assessments in politics have begun to emerge. While it was noted that 83 deputies were present at the meeting, Özel said the new party would be "the main opposition party by a wide margin."

Özel's move has brought the question of how the new political line will take shape following the split in the CHP to the agenda. While it was reported that the establishment efforts are in the final stages, statements made both from within the CHP and from opposition parties drew attention.

FIRST REACTIONS IN POLITICS

According to Habertürk, Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, who returned to the chairmanship by court order, evaluated the new party issue in a meeting with deputies close to him. It was stated that Kılıçdaroğlu said, "We will not make any negative statements regarding those who have left."

According to the same report, Kılıçdaroğlu emphasized that the goal from now on is to be in power, giving the message, "We will not oppose the opposition."

Future Party Chairman Ahmet Davutoğlu also answered journalists' questions following the New Path group meeting. Stating, "If a new party is being established, it falls to us to say 'good luck'," Davutoğlu pointed to the search for common ground within the opposition.

Davutoğlu used the expressions, "Beyond minor disagreements, we must look at where we can meet on common ground." He said that Turkey's common values, moral standards, and political vision should be discussed again.

Özel, in his speech, highlighted his call for a "Turkey Alliance." He said, "I invite all democrats who have no problem with Atatürk, no problem with the Misak-ı Milli (National Pact) borders, and no problem with the Republic to embrace the Turkey Alliance and march to power together."

Özel also mentioned the names of Ekrem İmamoğlu, Mansur Yavaş, Zeydan Karalar, and Vahap Seçer, stating that they would "not leave these names behind." He stated that everyone who does not say "I am not with them" is with them.

It was reported that Zeydan Karalar, speaking to Halk TV, said, "I had said before that I would stay in the CHP. I have infinite respect for everyone, but I am a CHP member." It was stated that Karalar evaluated the new party initiative by saying, "They are exercising their democratic rights, I respect that. There is an uncertain situation; we will see what time shows."