MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli has been notably absent from public life for over seven weeks following heart surgery, raising concerns about his health and political future. The 78-year-old has not appeared before the media since his operation in early February, leading to increasing speculation and concern among party members and the public.
Bahçeli underwent a heart valve surgery on February 4, 2025, and while initial reports indicated that the surgery was successful, there have been no images or statements from him since the operation. Prior to his surgery, Bahçeli was last seen around the time of his hospitalization, making this current absence particularly striking.
During his absence, MHP canceled a series of group meetings scheduled for February 4, 11, 18, 25, and March 4, 11, and 18. These cancellations prompted questions regarding the party's direction during such a critical political period. MHP's communication after February 19 suggested Bahçeli was recovering and intended to return to work soon, yet it has now been confirmed that no such return has occurred.
While Bahçeli has remained active online, continuing to engage in social media communications and phone conversations with party officials, his lack of any audio or video interaction has drawn negative attention. This raises serious questions about his current state of health. Sabahattin Önibar, a journalist, shared his concerns on his YouTube channel, stating, "Devlet Bahçeli, yaşı 78, üç kalp ameliyatı geçirdi, kalçasını kırdı ve yürüyemiyor. Ses, resim, görüntü veremiyor. Ancak siyasetten çekilmeyi düşünmüyor"—suggesting serious health issues that limit his mobility and ability to communicate publicly.
The MHP has yet to confirm whether Bahçeli will attend the next scheduled group meeting, which is notably set for today, March 25, 2025. With each passing week, the unanswered questions regarding Bahçeli's health have increased the curiosity of both party supporters and political analysts alike.
This ongoing uncertainty surrounding Bahçeli’s health and future has begun to stir discussions about the party’s leadership and what it might mean for the MHP's political strategies moving forward. Observers are keenly interested to see if Bahçeli will make a re-appearance as Turkey's political landscape continues to evolve.
Despite the doubts, the MHP holds on to its leader's previous assurances about his commitment to political life. Official statements from the party have attempted to alleviate concerns over his health, stating that he is regaining strength and will be back to his daily activities shortly. However, the absence of any tangible proof in terms of public appearances keeps those assurances under a cloud of skepticism.
The ongoing absence of Bahçeli from MHP group meetings and public events also highlights a crucial issue for the party in terms of leadership structure and public perception. The party's reliance on Bahçeli for key decisions creates a vacuum that others within the organization feel pressing to fill. With upcoming elections on the horizon, the need for stability and public engagement cannot be overlooked.
In summary, the prolonged absence of MHP's leader Devlet Bahçeli from the public eye continues to spark widespread speculation. As the party navigates an uncertain future without the direct guidance of Bahçeli, all eyes will be on whether he can return to the political arena and how the MHP might adapt in his absence.
