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Member of main opposition confirms Muharrem Ince’s potential return to CHP

Muharrem Ince with Ozgur Ozel, leader of CHP, in Ankara, Turkey, on Jan 4, 2024 Muharrem Ince, leader of Memleket Party, meets with Ozgur Ozel, leader of CHP, in Ankara, Türkiye, on Jan 4, 2024. (IHA Photo)
By Newsroom
Jan 27, 2025 10:38 AM

Ali Oztunc, the Republican People’s Party (CHP) representative from Kahramanmaras, confirmed recent rumors about Muharrem Ince, the leader of the Memleket (Homeland) Party, potentially returning to CHP.

The rumors had been circulating in Ankara political circles and were addressed by Oztunc during an interview.

Why it matters?

Ince’s potential return to the CHP is significant for Turkish politics. Ince, who was the CHP’s presidential candidate in 2018, formed the Memleket Party in 2021 after parting ways with the CHP. His return could shift the balance of power in the opposition and shed light on evolving political dynamics in Türkiye.

Details

  • Confirmation of claims: Ali Oztunc confirmed the rumors about Ince’s return to CHP, stating that he has information about it and that it’s true. He explained that Ince’s desire to come back to CHP, which he referred to as his “home,” has been widely known.
  • Uncertainty regarding CHP leadership: Oztunc noted, however, that he was unsure about the stance of CHP’s leadership on this matter. He added that the timing of Ince’s potential return is unclear.
  • Reasons for returning: Oztunc suggested that Ince’s desire to return stems from dissatisfaction with recent political developments, including what he sees as injustices and unlawful measures. While this issue is on the table, the official position of CHP leadership on the matter remains unknown.
  • Ince’s current position: According to Sozcu’s Ankara representative, Saygi Ozturk, who spoke to Ince, the Memleket Party leader said he would not be making any public statements on the issue for now.
Muharrem Ince with Ozgur Ozel, leader of CHP, in Ankara, Turkey, on Jan 4, 2024
Muharrem Ince, leader of Memleket Party, meets with Ozgur Ozel, leader of CHP, in Ankara, Türkiye, on Jan. 4, 2024 (IHA Photo)

Political consequences

If Ince does return to CHP, it could lead to significant changes within the party and impact the larger political landscape in Türkiye. Ince, a prominent figure in Turkish politics, could influence CHP’s strategy in the upcoming elections and affect the overall direction of the opposition.

Ince’s political journey

Ince’s political career has been marked by his roles within CHP and the creation of the Memleket Party after disagreements with CHP leadership.

His possible return would not only reflect shifting political allegiances but also contribute to the ongoing evolution of Türkiye’s political opposition, with key elections on the horizon.

Last Updated:  Jan 27, 2025 10:40 AM