Preparations for an extraordinary congress begin in CHP: Signatures to be collected from delegates

Activity regarding an extraordinary congress in the CHP has gained momentum. In an announcement made via social media, Balıkesir Deputy Ensar Aytekin stated that they would initiate the signature collection process for the congress as of June 1, 2026. Aytekin also emphasized that they expect support from all delegates across Turkey during this process.

In his statement, Aytekin said, "To hold those who entered the 'father's house' with police and broke down the doors, and those who smashed windows and frames and displayed hostility toward democracy to all of Turkey, accountable, we are initiating the congress process as of tomorrow (June 1, 2026) for our 38th Ordinary Congress, which was cancelled by those hoping for help from the courts, and we are collecting signatures from our delegates all over Turkey. We invite all those who have been appointed and wish to be candidates to this congress, where we will re-elect our Chairman Özgür Özel, who has been elected 4 times by delegate vote, for a 5th time. Respectfully submitted to the public."

While efforts to convene a new congress have accelerated following the cancellation of the 38th Ordinary Congress within the party, Aytekin's call has triggered extraordinary activity within the party. As part of the process, the goal is to reach the sufficient number of signatures for a new congress in the coming days.

How the signature collection, which is specifically aimed at ensuring CHP Chairman Özgür Özel continues his duty, will affect the current balances within the party will become clear in the coming period. The references made without naming names in Aytekin's statement also drew attention to criticisms regarding recent developments within the party.