Turkey’s pro-Kurdish party condemns ousting of main opposition leadership

Monday 25 May 2026 - 17:00

Turkey’s pro-Kurdish DEM Party has strongly criticized a recent court decision that removed the leadership of the country’s main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), calling the move a serious threat to democratic principles.

The ruling, which led to the ousting of CHP leadership, sparked tensions in Ankara after police entered the party’s headquarters and used tear gas to disperse crowds while enforcing the court’s decision. The intervention resulted in the removal of party figures, including former leader Özgür Özel, who has rejected the ruling and described it as politically motivated.

In response, the DEM Party condemned both the court decision and the police operation, describing the events as a “disgrace to democracy.” Party representatives argued that political parties should not be controlled through judicial decisions but should instead be shaped by their members and voters.

The incident has deepened concerns about political tensions in Turkey, particularly between ruling institutions and opposition groups. Critics say the court ruling reflects a broader pattern of judicial influence over political affairs, while supporters of the decision argue it falls within legal procedures.

Following the police intervention in Ankara, several opposition voices joined in condemning the operation, calling it excessive and damaging to democratic norms. The DEM Party, the third-largest political force in Turkey’s parliament, has played an active role in criticizing what it sees as democratic backsliding.

Party co-chair Tuncer Bakırhan described the events as “unacceptable” and said the use of force by security services represented a serious violation of democratic standards.

The situation continues to fuel debate over the balance between legal authority and political independence in Turkey’s evolving political landscape.