Mansur Yavas emerges as top CHP contender if Imamoglu remains sidelined

Following the arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, the opposition’s leading presidential hopeful, the Republican People’s Party (CHP) is now focused on deciding its next move.

Imamoglu was sent to Silivri Prison as part of a corruption investigation targeting Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. His detention has sparked debate within the party over who should lead the opposition into the next presidential race.

CHP leader Ozgur Ozel stated that if Imamoglu is unable to run, the party will nominate “the candidate with the highest public support.” His remarks have fueled fresh speculation around the party’s internal dynamics and possible alternatives.

Polls highlight growing support for Yavas

Recent surveys cited in Turkish media show that while public sympathy toward Imamoglu remains high, support for Ozel is mixed, according to Turkish media. In one poll, 48% of respondents said they viewed Ozel’s election as CHP leader positively, while 39% held a negative opinion. However, when asked about his performance, 53.8% described it as unsuccessful.

Analysts noted a discrepancy between Ozel’s internal party legitimacy and his national appeal. The recent surge in support for CHP appears to stem more from Imamoglu’s legal ordeal than from Ozel’s political initiatives. Despite his public speeches, rallies, and boycotts—including a series of protests in Sarachane—Ozel has not managed to turn this momentum into personal political capital.

Mansur Yavas leads in presidential preference

When asked who they would like to see as CHP’s presidential candidate, respondents overwhelmingly favored Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavas. In multiple scenarios presented in the polls, he ranked significantly ahead of both Ozel and Imamoglu.

This suggests that, should Imamoglu remain unable to run, Yavas is viewed as the most viable alternative among opposition voters.

Internal doubts remain about Yavas’ candidacy

Despite his popularity, questions remain as to whether Yavas would receive the full backing of the party leadership.

Observers note that Ozel and his inner circle may hesitate to endorse a figure they view as ideologically distant or politically independent.