MHP, CHP engage in key meeting on government’s trustee appointments
CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel (L) and MHP Chairman Devlet Bahceli (R). (Türkiye Today Photo)
Representatives from Türkiye’s Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) and the Republican People’s Party (CHP) convened Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. at the Turkish Parliament to discuss potential legislative changes, aimed at addressing controversies surrounding government-appointed trustees for municipalities.
Background: Controversy over trustee appointments
The meeting follows recent developments sparked by the arrest of Esenyurt Mayor Ahmet Ozer and the subsequent appointment of a government trustee to replace him.
MHP Deputy Chair and Istanbul MP Feti Yildiz had earlier proposed legislative amendments to prevent the misuse of trustee appointments.
Speaking at the Parliament’s Plan and Budget Commission, Yildiz stated, “We must revisit the Election Law and Political Parties Law with a level-headed approach, ensuring that the presumption of innocence is upheld.”
He also suggested revisiting candidacy criteria for mayors and members of Parliament, particularly in cases involving terrorism-related charges supported by strong evidence.
CHP response: Support for legislative review
CHP leader Ozgur Ozel responded positively to Yildiz’s proposals, expressing openness to collaboration. “If this approach by MHP is sincere, and they manage to gain support from their coalition partner (AK Party) on this matter, Türkiye can move beyond a significant democratic impasse,” said Ozel.
Following these statements, both parties initiated contact, paving the way for Wednesday’s meeting.
Meeting details: Legal experts and lawmakers join talks
The discussions involved key representatives from both parties:
- MHP: Deputy Group Chair Erkan Akcay and Sakarya MP Levent Bulbul
- CHP: Deputy Group Chair Ali Mahir Basarir and Vice Chair for Legal Affairs Gul Ciftci.
Proposed changes and focus areas
- Revising candidacy criteria: Barring mayoral and parliamentary candidates with ongoing terrorism-related trials based on strong evidence under consideration.
- Addressing trustee appointments: Ensuring that suspended mayors are replaced by a vote within the municipal council, aligning with previous practices.
- Upholding rule of law: Strengthening safeguards to prevent misuse of trustee appointments while maintaining national security considerations.
