CHP's Özgür Özel drives internal leadership talks and backs Haldun Güler for Çankaya council

Özgür Özel, newly appointed CHP General President, convened a series of meetings with provincial chairpersons, MPs and party council members during what insiders call a “decision week.” The gatherings aim to decide whether Özel will remain as party head or step aside, with speculation about legal challenges and factional support. Reports note that around 74 provincial chairmen, parliamentary group leaders and council members have been summoned to discuss the party’s future.

At the same time, the CHP’s influence extends to the municipal level in Ankara’s Çankaya district, where a council meeting on 22 July 2026 will vote on a new acting mayor. Özel reportedly guided the selection of Haldun Güler, a financial advisor described as neutral and technically qualified, whose connection to the father of a detained activist was highlighted. The appointment is portrayed as a move to ensure continuity of services and balance internal party factions.