# CHP leadership resignation amid domestic violence scandal

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/chp-leadership-resignation-amid-domestic-violence-scandal
> Updated: 2026-09-14T05:09:00.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 2.

Berhan Şimşek, a Vice President of the Republican People's Party (CHP), resigned from his leadership positions on the Central Executive Board following the leak of security camera footage. The footage appears to show Şimşek physically assaulting his long-term partner, Özlem Şanver. Şanver alleged a history of physical and psychological violence dating back to 2021, noting that a restraining order had been issued against Şimşek by the Istanbul Anadolu 1st Family Court in April 2026.

Şimşek denied the allegations, describing the situation as an “itibar suikastı” (character assassination) and claiming he was attempting to prevent Şanver from being embarrassed in front of neighbors. While he resigned from his leadership roles to avoid harming the party, he stated his intention to remain a party member.

Following the leak, Şanver provided further details, alleging that the footage captured only a fraction of the abuse and that she had also been subjected to economic violence. She criticized the CHP, stating she did not receive expected support from party officials and that some members responded with dismissive attitudes toward her claims.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-14: Berhan Şimşek faces domestic violence allegations from former partner

Özlem Şanver has detailed allegations of domestic and economic violence against Berhan Şimşek, while also criticizing CHP officials for failing to support her following leaked footage of the abuse.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/berhan-imek-faces-domestic-violence-allegations-from-former-partner

### 2026-09-04: Berhan Şimşek resigns from CHP leadership amid violence allegations

CHP Vice President Berhan Şimşek has resigned from leadership roles following leaked footage and allegations of physical violence against his partner, Özlem Şanver.

15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/berhan-imek-resigns-from-chp-leadership-amid-violence-allegations

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Cite as: CHP leadership resignation amid domestic violence scandal. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/chp-leadership-resignation-amid-domestic-violence-scandal
