Özgür Özel announces in Çanakkale: The cost of a dam built 55 years ago is still being paid

Republican People's Party (CHP) Chairman Özgür Özel made important statements at his party's 100th "Standing Up for the National Will" rally. Speaking at the rally held to demand the release of Ekrem İmamoğlu, Özel referenced the Gallipoli Campaign, stating, "These squares, this resistance, belong to the people, the nation, and democracy." Emphasizing the historical importance of Çanakkale, Özel stated that the CHP has always defended the will of the people and the nation.

RESPONDED TO CRITICISM DIRECTED AT CHP

Özel also responded to criticisms directed at the CHP. Stating that "Çanakkale means defending the common future of a nation," he expressed that the CHP stands against coups and, while always siding with the people, pursues the struggle for democracy. He also touched upon the importance of services provided in Çanakkale.

Özgür Özel said that Çanakkale has received insufficient services from the government and that they would stand against this situation. "Çanakkale paid 31.5 billion TL in taxes and received only 7.5 billion TL in services in return. During this government's term, they took 4 from Çanakkale and gave back 1. This injustice will end," said Özel, adding, "This injustice done to Çanakkale will be ended by the party founded by Atatürk."

ANNOUNCED THAT THE ÇANAKKALE BRIDGE WILL BE FREE

Özel also touched upon projects in Çanakkale. "With the money spent on this bridge, 3 bridges could have been built. This government built it, and you are crossing this bridge for 995 TL. Under a CHP government, the people of Çanakkale will cross the Çanakkale Bridge for free," he said. He also emphasized that these projects are important steps affecting not only the local population but all of Turkey.

Özel also made important statements regarding the Atikhisar Dam. Stating that the cost of this dam, built 55 years ago, is still being deducted from the public, Özel said, "The late Demirel and Ecevit had a hand in this dam, but you are still paying for it. The Atikhisar Dam was built between 1968-1975 with the taxes of this nation and has been serving since that day." He continued, "Erdoğan said 'shake down the municipalities,' but the cost of a dam built 55 years ago is still being deducted from you. Shame on them."

TOUCHED UPON RETIREE SALARIES AND ECONOMIC PROBLEMS

Addressing the economic situation, Özel said, "The hunger threshold is 32 thousand TL, and the poverty threshold is 106 thousand TL. The retiree salary is 20 thousand TL. If this government did not mess with retirees, the lowest retiree salary would be 42 thousand TL." Stating that retiree salaries were previously at a level that could purchase 8 quarter gold coins, Özel emphasized that this era will come to an end and a fairer administration will arrive.