Özgür Özel reveals what he said following Cemil Tugay's resignation

As the wave of resignations continues within the Republican People's Party (CHP), the recent departure of İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Cemil Tugay from the party has sparked debate. Tugay announced that he resigned in reaction to the "absolute nullity" administration attributed to former CHP Chairman Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, and also brought allegations regarding his meeting with CHP leader Özgür Özel to the agenda.

Tugay had claimed that he spoke with Özgür Özel both before and after his resignation, and that Özel had said, "Well done. They deserve this." However, Özgür Özel denied these statements in no uncertain terms.

In his assessment to journalist İsmail Saymaz, Özel stated that he has been against resignations within the party from the very beginning and has clearly demonstrated his stance on this issue. Özel said, "To prevent Tugay's resignation, I had a message sent to our İzmir provincial chairman and the group of mayors stating, 'We do not consent to the resignation of any mayor.'"

Sharing details about their conversations, Özel stated, "I called Cemil Tugay three times before the resignation. After he resigned, he called me and said that he was loyal to me and remained loyal to his party. I told him that I did not approve of his resignation. I am stating this clearly: I did not say, 'They deserve this.' At the end of the conversation, I only said, 'There is nothing to be done, may it be for the best.'"

Özgür Özel also added, "Even if he were to ask today, my opinion is that he should return," expressing his support for Cemil Tugay rejoining the CHP.

Cemil Tugay, while announcing his resignation, had stated that he was in contact with Özgür Özel before and after the resignation; that Özel had said, "It is your decision," and then used the phrases, "Well done, they deserve this."

News Source: 12punto