Turkish nationalist party leader Bahceli’s statement sparks confusion, here is why

Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli expressed the MHP’s desire for a broad-based alliance between the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), supported by other political elements, known as the Table of Six.

This statement followed President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s unprecedented visit to the CHP headquarters and his meeting with Ayse Ates, wife of the late Ulku Ocaklari, or Idealist Hearths, leader Sinan Ates, who was assassinated in 2022.

There had been claims that Bahceli was not pleased with the meeting between Erdogan and CHP leader Ozgur Ozel.

MHP leader Bahceli, Erdogan’s ally in the People’s Alliance, made a statement on June 12 suggesting that the ruling AK Party and CHP should form an alliance.

Bahceli emphasized a new dynamic aimed at normalization and detente among political parties after the local elections on March 31.

If the MHP is perceived as an obstacle to sustaining this ordered atmosphere of normalization and détente, and if there is broad consensus on this matter, our duty is to take risks and make sacrifices for the sake of our country and nation.

Devlet Bahceli, MHP leader

Bahçeli also reiterated his commitment to the People’s Alliance. Emphasizing that it is not possible for MHP to compromise on the People’s Allianc Bahceli said, “Despite this, our commitment to the People’s Alliance will continue with determination, and our support for the law proposals in the Turkish parliament will continue.”

Main opposition leader on Bahceli’s statement

Responding to speculations about Bahceli’s discomfort with recent political developments, CHP leader Ozgur Ozel addressed the matter publicly. He emphasized that the CHP is focused on substantive issues rather than engaging in artificial controversies. Ozel highlighted existing challenges within the People’s Alliance, suggesting that if Bahceli is dissatisfied with the current alliance, he is welcome to consider joining the Türkiye Alliance.