Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, the leader of Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), made it clear that he holds no regrets regarding his presidential candidacy in his first live appearance on Friday since the 28 May election.
During the broadcast, Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu reaffirmed his conviction that everything they had done in the election was right. He highlighted that their primary focus was on the country and the party, rather than comparing his actions to those of other leaders.
Regarding the upcoming CHP congress, Kılıçdaroğlu emphasised the need for it to take place before the local elections. He expressed that the primary focus of the congress should be to understand why they did not achieve the desired results, stressing his disagreement with presenting the election results as a heavy defeat and emphasising the need for self-reflection within the party.
Kılıçdaroğlu also discussed various issues, including the problems faced during the elections, the party’s efforts, the perception of the CHP, and the demand for change. He stressed the significance of effectively serving the municipalities they have won and managing them with the participation of new party members.
Acknowledging the disappointment resulting from the election outcome, the CHP leader encouraged party members not to lose hope. He highlighted the necessity of renewal, strengthening, and maintaining their efforts, asserting that they would always be prepared for potential changes in the political landscape.
Kılıçdaroğlu reiterated his unwavering commitment to democracy and emphasised the importance of unity among opposition parties. He expressed his support for a strategic alliance and joint action based on the shared demand for democracy.
