Turkish opposition leader Özel condemns AKP over Üsküdar local vote

Turkish opposition leader Özgür Özel has criticized President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) over a local election process in Istanbul’s Üsküdar district. Speaking at a public rally in Üsküdar and during a television broadcast on Koza TV, Özel condemned the outcome that saw the deputy mayoralty transition to the AKP, characterizing the election process as deeply compromised.

Addressing Erdoğan directly regarding the district's administration, Özel asked, "Is this your democratic commitment?" Additionally, Özel commented on a separate meeting between Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur Yavaş and Erdoğan, providing context on why the discussions took place. The developments highlight ongoing political tensions between the main opposition party and the governing bloc following municipal leadership shifts across key urban centers.

Sources: Bianet, Cumhuriyet.