Turkey's CHP leader criticises AKP executive takeover in Üsküdar

Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Özgür Özel has condemned the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) after it regained executive control of Istanbul's Üsküdar district following a municipal council vote. Speaking to supporters at Üsküdar Square, Özel directly challenged Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan over the power shift, questioning the democratic legitimacy of overriding the mandate voters granted to CHP during local elections. Özel characterized the council's procedure as a dark moment for Turkish political life.

Separately, during an appearance on Koza TV, Özel addressed Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş's recent meeting with Erdoğan. Özel defended the engagement, stating that institutional dialogue between municipal executives and the presidency is essential for public administration and local governance.

Sources: Bianet, Cumhuriyet