Is Türkiye’s main opposition party pushing for early elections amid economic crisis?
CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel attends the "Labor Rally" organized by CHP Kocaeli Provincial Presidency with the slogan "We can't make ends meet" at Gebze Indoor Market Area, Kocaeli, Türkiye, June 30, 2024. (AA Photo)
The main opposition, Republican People’s Party (CHP), chairman Ozgur Ozel was in Edirne province of Türkiye with Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu to watch the Kirkpinar oil wrestling event and participate in the award ceremony. During his visit, Ozel made statements regarding ongoing discussions about the minimum wage.
Ozel has been vocal in his criticism of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) concerning economic difficulties and the minimum wage. Speaking in Edirne, he suggested that early elections might be on the horizon if economic conditions do not improve.
Expressing that the government must increase the minimum wage, Ozel stated that the current minimum wage of ₺17,000 ($520) is gradually losing value.
Ozel said, “We repeat this again. Either they will increase the minimum wage, or we will forcefully take it. Even if the increase doesn’t solve all problems, it will at least provide some relief. However, if there is no improvement in livelihoods, rest assured, elections will be called soon.”
