Utku Gümrükçü urges unity as CHP İzmir faces headquarters clashes and a mysterious bedroom

Utku Gümrükçü, newly appointed CHP İzmir provincial chairman, held a press conference announcing that the party will not exclude any members and stressing a culture of brotherhood and solidarity. He condemned hate speech within the party and pledged to restore internal democracy.

During the handover of the provincial headquarters, a physical altercation erupted. Women party leaders Zahide Kurun (CHP İzmir Women’s Branch) and Simge Tokgöz (Konak municipal CHP group spokesperson) reported being assaulted, receiving medical reports and filing complaints. Photographs showed party symbols and even an Atatürk photograph torn on the floor.

Gümrükçü also pointed out an unexpected room adjacent to the chief’s office, describing it as a “bedroom” whose purpose was unclear, and said the incident would trigger administrative and legal disciplinary procedures. He expressed intent to reconcile party members and invited former officials back to the party fold.