Turkish opposition DEVA, Future Party explore merger possibilities
Future Party leader Ahmet Davutoğlu (L) and DEVA Party leader Ali Babacan (R) pictured together. (Photo via NTV)
Turkish opposition DEVA (Democracy and Progress Party) and the Future Party (Gelecek Partisi) are exploring the possibility of merging under a single banner.
In an appearance on Turkish news channel Halk TV, Ali Babacan, leader of the DEVA Party, confirmed: “We are actively discussing a merger with the Future Party. Beyond the potential merger of these two parties, we are also examining whether we could form a new coalition by incorporating MPs from other parties.”
“We are in touch with individuals seeking a center-right platform in various locations. This is a time for unity and collaboration. Let us join forces and work together to address the country’s challenges,” Babacan emphasized.
Despite prolonged negotiations, the DEVA and Future Parties had not reached an agreement on unification until Babacan’s recent comments clarified that discussions are ongoing.
Is Davutoglu seeking presidential candidateship?
Amid speculation, it is rumored that Future Party leader Ahmet Davutoglu, who has agreed to merge with the DEVA Party under Ali Babacan’s leadership, seeks to be nominated as a presidential candidate in return for his support.
During the program, Babacan asserted: “The future address of center-right politics is the DEVA Party.”
In the May 14 elections, the DEVA Party secured 15 seats and the Future Party won 10 seats, running on CHP lists.
