Berhan Şimşek resigns from CHP leadership amid violence allegations

Berhan Şimşek, a Vice President of the Republican People's Party (CHP), has resigned from his positions on the Central Executive Board (MYK) and as Vice President following the leak of security camera footage appearing to show him physically assaulting his long-term partner, Özlem Şanver.

The footage, which Şanver stated dates back to June 2025, shows Şimşek kicking Şanver and forcibly pulling her into a house. Şanver has alleged a history of physical and psychological violence dating back to 2021, noting that she previously obtained medical reports and filed complaints.

Following Şanver's legal applications in April 2026, the Istanbul Anadolu 1st Family Court issued a restraining order against Şimşek under Law No. 6284, which was subsequently extended for an additional two months.

Şimşek has denied the allegations of violence, characterizing the situation as an “itibar suikastı” (character assassination). He claimed he was attempting to prevent Şanver from being embarrassed in front of neighbors and alleged that she has made demands for money and property. While he has resigned from his leadership roles within the CHP to avoid harming the party, he stated he intends to maintain his party membership.