Kilis Mayor Hakan Bilecen Resigns from CHP and Stays Independent

Mayor Hakan Bilecen announced his resignation from the Republican People’s Party (CHP), saying the party failed to keep promises made during his March 31, 2024 election campaign and that he received little support from local party structures. He emphasized that he will continue to serve the city of Kilis as an independent mayor, thanking only Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş for any assistance.

Political commentators have speculated that Bilecen may join the governing Justice and Development Party (AK Party), but he has denied any immediate party affiliation and reiterated his focus on municipal needs.