Main opposition CHP’s Ekrem Imamoglu kicks off presidential campaign

Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has launched his bid for Türkiye’s presidency, starting his campaign in Izmir before addressing supporters in Kayseri.

As a candidate in the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) primary, Imamoglu emphasized unity, democracy, and the party’s role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

CHP presidential primary underway

Speaking at an event at Erciyes Cultural Center in Kayseri, Imamoglu described his candidacy as a movement beyond electoral victory, focusing on national solidarity.

“We are not just seeking to win an election; we are striving for unity and brotherhood as a nation,” he stated.

Imamoglu emphasized the CHP’s legacy in Türkiye’s political evolution, noting its contributions.

“Our party’s presidential candidate is being chosen in this atmosphere. When CHP unites as one on March 23, Türkiye’s political landscape will begin to transform,” he said.

Reaffirming his commitment to the race, Imamoglu told the crowd, “I am here in the heart of Anatolia, in Kayseri, to entrust myself to you. On March 23, will all CHP members rush to the ballot box and vote in the primary? Will we stand up together? Will we win? CHP will win, Türkiye will win.”

Launch event in Izmir draws party leaders and supporters

Imamoglu officially launched his campaign in Izmir at Karsiyaka Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Indoor Sports Hall, joined by key party figures, including CHP Deputy Chairs Murat Bakan and Gokce Gokcen, as well as several metropolitan mayors.

In a social media post on X, Imamoglu said, “Bring it on! A handful of people who torture the nation will lose, Türkiye will win. They will be defeated… They will be defeated by our smiling faces… They will be defeated by our pure hearts. They will be defeated by our modesty and tolerance. The Republican People’s Party will succeed; Türkiye will win. We set out from Izmir.”

Imamoglu echoed sentiments from the party leaders, declaring, “We are taking the first step of a new journey today. To succeed, we must first set out. We must stand up, walk toward our goal, and grow wave by wave. Our goal is clear: to restore our unity as a nation, in both joy and sorrow.”

Criticism of government, election challenges

During his campaign speech, Imamoglu addressed the legal challenges he has faced, alleging that the government is attempting to obstruct his candidacy.

“Say it openly and bravely—do you not want me to serve Istanbul and Türkiye? Do you want to enter the election without Imamoglu?” he asked.

Challenging the ruling party, Imamoglu said: “The people are tired of your tricks. Forget the others; come to me! I am here, the people are here, and the ballot box is here. The people are waiting for the election.”