Main opposition leader speaks on bribery case for NYC Mayor Eric Adams

The Turkish main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) Chairman Ozgur Ozel visited the Turkish House (Turkevi) in New York during his trip for the Socialist International Presidium Meeting.

While addressing allegations of bribery involving Eric Adams, the mayor of New York, Ozel firmly dismissed the claims.

Türkiye does not need to bribe anyone in the US. We are not in such a weak position.

Ozgur Ozel, chairman of Republican People’s Party (CHP)

Commenting on the Turkevi building’s construction, Ozel emphasized that Türkiye did not engage in any corrupt practices during the process. He added, “If we received a gesture during the acquisition of this building, we have more than reciprocated it by granting that magnificent area for the U.S. Embassy in Türkiye.” He underscored Türkiye’s commitment to fair and mutually beneficial diplomatic relations.

Ozel received a briefing about the activities of Türkiye’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations and the New York Consulate General during the visit. Ozel expressed his party’s desire to hold future CHP programs and meetings in the U.S. at the Turkevi building, describing it as “a source of pride for all of us.”

Ozel’s meeting with TRNC President Tatar

Afterward, Ozel met with President Ersin Tatar of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) at the Turkevi. He reaffirmed that the CHP will continue to fully support the Cyprus cause, saying, “Politics in Türkiye may be highly contentious, but when the main opposition party steps outside Türkiye, we represent the interests of the entire nation.”