Erdogan slams main opposition over Istanbul corruption scandal

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan strongly criticized the main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), over corruption allegations linked to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.

Speaking at the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) parliamentary group meeting, Erdogan vowed that those involved in misconduct would face justice.

“Those who betray the nation and attempt to undermine our unity will be held accountable before the law,” Erdogan said, addressing his party’s lawmakers. His remarks came in the wake of an ongoing corruption and bribery investigation involving municipal officials.

Erdogan accused CHP-led municipalities of widespread financial misconduct, stating, “Istanbul’s metropolitan and district municipalities have written the book on corruption.” He also emphasized that the documents forming the basis of the investigation were provided by CHP insiders.

Corruption scandal sparks political tension

The controversy erupted after Turkish authorities launched an investigation into alleged irregularities within Istanbul’s municipality, which has been under CHP control since 2019. The allegations include bribery networks, fraudulent diplomas, and financial mismanagement affecting public funds.

In his speech, Erdogan criticized CHP leader Ozgur Ozel for his call for street protests, warning that such actions could destabilize the country. “Your corruption network has been exposed. You cannot cover up the wrongdoing by blaming others or inciting chaos in the streets,” he said.

Political stakes and broader implications

Erdogan framed the corruption scandal as a broader challenge to national governance, stressing that the fight against corruption and economic sabotage would continue. “The fate of Türkiye is intertwined with the fate of the AK Party and the People’s Alliance,” he declared, referencing the ruling coalition.

The investigation has heightened tensions between the government and the opposition, with CHP leaders accusing the ruling party of using judicial mechanisms for political leverage. However, Erdogan countered these claims, asserting that the legal process was initiated by whistleblowers within CHP itself.

“The ones who took bribes, facilitated corruption, and compromised public resources are from CHP. The ones who reported these crimes to authorities are also from CHP. Yet somehow, they try to blame the AK Party,” he said.

CHP’s response, escalating war of words

CHP leadership has denied wrongdoing and accused the government of orchestrating the probe to weaken opposition forces ahead of future elections. In response, Erdogan urged CHP to focus on internal accountability rather than “deflecting responsibility” and attacking state institutions.

The scandal and the subsequent political fallout are expected to dominate Türkiye’s political landscape in the coming weeks, further intensifying the ongoing rivalry between the government and the opposition.