Vote-buying allegations could lead to annulment of main opposition’s congress

Amid vote-buying and bribery allegations, Türkiye’s main opposition, the Republican People’s Party (CHP)’s 38th Ordinary Congress, is under intense scrutiny.

The Congress could potentially be annulled, triggering an early election and disrupting the party’s leadership structure, according to Turkish media.

Key developments

• Vote-buying allegations have surfaced, with delegates claiming they were paid in exchange for votes. Reportedly, money, cars, iPhones, and even job promises were offered to secure votes in favor of certain candidates.
• Ankara Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation following these allegations. Delegates who were allegedly involved are reportedly giving testimonies under “anonymous witness” protection, a move that has raised questions about the transparency of the inquiry.
• Lutfu Savas, the former Hatay mayor and former member of the CHP, has filed a legal challenge to annul the Congress. His legal team cites direct evidence of vote-buying and intimidation during the election process.

Possible legal consequences

If the court confirms the allegations, the current leadership of CHP could be removed, and an extraordinary Congress may be scheduled.

Additionally, if evidence of criminal activities by high-ranking officials, including Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, is discovered, a new indictment may be filed, resulting in criminal charges.

If the Congress is annulled, the party would face a leadership vacuum and would have to hold early elections to resolve the crisis. This would potentially trigger further internal conflicts and put the party’s unity in jeopardy.

Next steps

Courts are expected to issue a temporary ruling on the Congress’s validity. If the ruling leans toward annulment, CHP would face internal chaos, with a power struggle between key figures.

The prosecutor’s office is continuing to gather evidence, and more delegates are expected to testify.

The outcome of this investigation could shape the party’s future, depending on the extent of involvement from party leaders in the alleged activities.