Turkey's CHP holds emergency meetings amid leadership dispute

Following a court decision that nullified the Republican People's Party’s (CHP) 38th ordinary congress, party leader Özgür Özel convened urgent meetings at the party headquarters in Ankara. Metropolitan mayors from cities including Ankara, Istanbul, İzmir and others gathered to assess the situation and prepare a joint declaration, while a party council was scheduled for later in the day to discuss further steps.

During the emergency session, CHP MP Umut Akdoğan asked for an "Adana kebap," prompting a heated exchange with Özel, who rebuked him for focusing on food amid the crisis. The incident, described by witnesses as a "kebab crisis," underscored tensions within the party as it prepares to re‑engage with former leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, who is expected to resume contact after the meetings.

The party’s internal dispute centers on the suspension of its leadership structure and the search for a new strategic direction ahead of upcoming political contests.