CHP Kilis Chief Umut Mehmet Sapan Resigns After Detention, Cites Lack of Central Support

Umut Mehmet Sapan, the provincial chairman of Turkey's Republican People's Party (CHP) in Kilis, announced his resignation following his release from an 11‑day pre‑trial detention. The detention stemmed from an investigation led by authorities in Istanbul. Sapan said the legal process and his imprisonment had a serious impact on his health and family, and that continuing in his role was no longer feasible.

In a written statement released a day after his release, Sapan criticised the party’s central leadership for failing to provide the necessary assistance during the ordeal, describing himself as "left alone" by the headquarters. He thanked Kilis mayor Hakan Bilecen, his family, party members and supporters for their backing, and expressed confidence that justice had ultimately been served.