The path to success for the CHP

The recent election defeat has triggered debates about change within the Republican People's Party (CHP). These discussions appear to primarily involve the party's bylaws, program, and the replacement of high-level staff. Undoubtedly, discussing these issues is very important. However, the fact that these discussions do not include the party's way of working among the public is a serious shortcoming.

The quality of the party's working style is of vital importance. Because, fundamentally, it is through the right working style that the roadmap the party envisions for the country can be embraced by the masses. Consequently, the party's vote share can be increased, and the door to the party coming to power can be opened.

It is observed that the CHP's work among the public today is mostly limited to election periods. This is essentially limited to policies determined by appointed consultants, the distribution of brochures, the hanging of posters, and the sharing of these by high-level party officials with the public through the media. Therefore, its impact remains limited. However, it would be a results-oriented approach for local party organizations to be in interaction with the public throughout the year through activities organized in the field, on the streets, and in different areas.

In this context, social gatherings where the problems of the country and the people are discussed can be implemented. Through such face-to-face activities, a relationship based on trust can be established with the public in a real sense, and the masses' expectations from the party can be learned. In such an atmosphere, it becomes much easier for the public to feel close to the party and, therefore, to vote for it.

Another benefit of this working style is that the striking data obtained by local party cadres from their relationships with the public can be used by the party headquarters in creating and updating the election roadmap. In other words, it is for the party's local cadres to prepare an election roadmap containing solutions in light of the data obtained in the field, together with the expert cadres at the party headquarters.

It is clear that such an election roadmap, prepared in light of data coming from all corners of the country, will be much more objective, sound, and therefore effective than the roadmap currently being implemented and prepared by appointed consultants. On the other hand, only with such an approach can the CHP develop a current and striking political discourse that will influence the public.

In light of the suggestions we have expressed above, the party's renewal of its working style at the CHP convention to be held in November could turn into a driving force in the upcoming elections. Therefore, the way for the CHP to significantly increase its vote share could be opened. Furthermore, with this approach, as the CHP will become more integrated with the public, the door to power will also be opened for the CHP in the process.