Message from Ümit Uysal on CHP: Leaving the CHP is not an option

Muratpaşa Mayor Ümit Uysal spoke at a promotional event held in Antalya for the expanded third edition of his book, “Republic Again in the 21st Century – The New Stage of Modernization in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” published by Cumhuriyet Kitapları.

The discussion, held at the Antalya Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ATSO) Atatürk Conference Hall, was moderated by journalist Ceren Deniz. The event was attended by CHP Antalya Provincial Chair Hasan Şahin, ATSO President Yusuf Hacısüleyman, AESOB President Adlıhan Dere, business world representatives, politicians, consuls, NGO leaders, neighborhood heads (muhtars), and numerous guests.

In his speech, Uysal stated that Turkey still discusses the 21st century as if it were the “future,” whereas scientific, technological, economic, and social transformations are already underway. For this reason, he expressed that politics, the economy, and the social structure are in need of a search for ways to adapt to new conditions.

Summarizing the core idea of the book with the words, “The Republic is not a memory of the past, but a program for the future,” Uysal noted that the Republic should be evaluated not only as a historical achievement but as a founding concept capable of responding to the problems of the new century.

Criticizing the tendency to read Turkish history in isolation from economic developments, Uysal emphasized that economic independence is one of the fundamental elements of sovereignty. “Sovereignty is not just incomplete without economic sovereignty; it never truly exists. If you do not have economic sovereignty, you are a colony,” said Uysal, drawing attention to the importance of the abolition of capitulations and the goal of economic independence during the founding period of the Republic.

Stating that the country’s real agenda should be production, education, technology, law, and development, Uysal noted that the economy must be rethought according to high value-added production and the requirements of the artificial intelligence era. Uysal emphasized the importance of education and scientific planning with the expression, “Those who shelve mathematics also shelve prosperity.”

STATEMENT ON CHP FROM UYSAL

Responding to a question from journalist Ceren Deniz regarding the CHP and discussions about new parties during the talk, Uysal said that while he respects everyone’s political choices, he does not find it right to leave the CHP.

Stating that the CHP cannot be evaluated like any other political party, Uysal said, “The CHP is not a party founded by 30 people coming together and submitting a petition to the Ministry of Interior. It is a legal entity born a hundred years ago from the total energy of society amidst occupation and hunger.”

Uysal continued his statement with these words: “Leaving the party is not among my options. We must strengthen our deep-rooted political institutions by discussing everything we find lacking or do not accept under this roof.”

News Source: 12punto