Ekrem İmamoğlu resigns from CHP to join Yeni Parti

Ekrem İmamoğlu, the former Mayor of Istanbul currently detained in Silivri Prison, has announced his resignation from the Republican People's Party (CHP) after 17 years of membership. In a statement released via social media, İmamoğlu cited his responsibility to the nation and his beliefs regarding the country's future as the reasons for his departure. He declared that he is opening “a new path” and intends to continue his political career under the banner of the Yeni Parti (New Party), led by Özgür Özel.

The CHP has responded to the resignation, with spokesperson Müslim Sarı describing the move as a “belated decision” that was not entirely surprising. The party emphasized its commitment to continuing its political journey independently of individual ambitions.

Simultaneously, the Yeni Parti is seeing significant growth through defections from the CHP. In Kırklareli, the party has completed its official establishment process, including the appointment of provincial and district chairpersons. In Muğla, several local officials have also moved toward the new political formation, signaling a shift in regional political dynamics.