Opposition leader apologizes for hosting controversial guest amid Erdogan’s criticism

Main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) leader Ozgur Ozel has responded to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent criticism regarding his decision to host Dilruba Kayserilioglu as an honorary guest at a party congress in Izmir.

Kayserilioglu, who had been sentenced to seven months and 15 days in prison for remarks made during a street interview, was released following the ruling but continues to stir political debate.

In a speech on Sunday, Erdogan accused Ozel of disrespecting Turkish democracy, stating that the event symbolized a return to the CHP’s single-party era and had offended a large segment of the public.

“That photo, which disrespects not only AK Party and People’s Alliance supporters but the majority of the nation, has no place in Turkish democracy. We believe this stain must be swiftly removed. Ozel owes an apology to the nation,” Erdogan said.

Main opposition’s Ozel apologizes

In a statement today, Ozel addressed Erdogan’s remarks, clarifying his stance on Kayserilioglu’s comments. “I do not defend the statements made by Dilruba. While I believe her imprisonment was disproportionate and unjust, I have no personal apology to offer,” he said.

However, Ozel extended an apology on Kayserilioglu’s behalf, adding: “I apologize on behalf of Dilruba to everyone she may have offended. But let it be clear, I have no apology to make for my own actions. If Erdogan is calling for apologies, I believe it’s his turn to apologize for the statements that have hurt members of the CHP.”

The political controversy surrounding Kayserilioglu continues to generate significant attention as both leaders engage in a heated exchange for freedom of expression and accountability.