On January 5, 2025, the Republican People's Party (CHP) held its first congress of the year in Foça, İzmir, which culminated with Kenan Düzgün defeating rival Serkan Kaplan for the district presidency. The congress marked a significant turn for the provincial party following the previous leadership’s dismissal over inadequate engagement and participation.
The event took place at the Reha Midilli Cultural Center, where 124 delegates were present, and 120 cast valid votes. Düzgün received 61 votes to Kaplan's 59, leading to tight competition requiring recounts to confirm the final tally.
Düzgün’s victory reflected the support of various key figures, including Foça Mayor Saniye Bora Fıçı and former district heads who rallied behind him. “Our congress proceeded beautifully, fostering respect and unity within the party," he remarked, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the campaign. “We brought together 95% of CHP district delegates. This was a fair election, and I am grateful to all party members who participated.”
Ednan Arslan, CHP İzmir Deputy and Chair of the Congress, expressed optimism for the party’s future, stating, “I hope our congress strengthens our resolve to work tirelessly until we bring our party to power.” His comments underscored the strategic importance of engaging the local community as the party aims to regain influence.
Meanwhile, the CHP continues to mobilize its efforts across Turkey, with General President Özgür Özel set to address the people of Erzurum on the same day, January 5. The meeting aims to discuss local issues and present CHP’s solutions to long-standing challenges, reinforcing the party's commitment to regional concerns.
Serhat Can Eş, CHP Erzurum Provincial President, highlighted the significance of Özel's visit, saying it would facilitate nationwide dialogue about local problems. “General President Özgür Özel will discuss Erzurum's issues and present our inclusive policy proposals aimed at increasing the city's prosperity,” he noted, reinforcing the party's intention to tackle neglected challenges.
Özel's engagement is framed within the broader aim of enhancing CHP's visibility and responsiveness to local needs. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Necip Fazıl Kısakürek Cultural Center at 14:00, inviting all local residents to participate.
Eş emphasized, “Erzurum, once recognized as the eastern jewel of Anatolia, deserves attention and development after years of neglect. This visit is not merely political; it’s about strengthening connections with the public.”
Düzgün's win and Özel's strategic meetings serve as pivotal moments for the CHP, as both local and national efforts aim to galvanize party support and align more closely with community needs. Political analysts view these developments as instrumental for the CHP's ambitions leading up to upcoming elections, particularly if they can maintain engagement and address constituents' concerns effectively.
Moving forward, it is clear the CHP is striving for unity, accountability, and engagement, with leaders like Düzgün exemplifying the party’s vision for rebuilding its base and strengthening its organizational structure throughout Türkiye. With all eyes now on both the recent congress and Özel's public meeting, the CHP hopes to cultivate renewed interest and commitment among constituents.