Özgür Özel criticises AKP takeover of Üsküdar following council vote

Turkish opposition leader Özgür Özel has denounced the ruling Justice and Development Party's (AKP) acquisition of the Üsküdar municipal council presidency in Istanbul following an internal vote. Speaking at a public gathering in Üsküdar Square and during a television appearance on Koza TV, the Republican People's Party (CHP) chairman called the transfer a dark chapter in Turkish political history, questioning President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's democratic record in a district previously won by the CHP during local elections.

Özel also commented on Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur Yavaş's recent meeting with Erdoğan. He stated that dialogue between local government officials and the presidency remains necessary to serve public interests and fulfill municipal duties, despite ongoing political competition.

Sources: Bianet, Cumhuriyet.