Özgür Özel, the leader of Turkey’s main opposition party, criticized the government on Friday after being excluded from speaking at an official Victory Day ceremony in Kütahya, a national holiday celebrating a key battle in Turkey’s War of Independence.
Özel, head of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), said local officials in Kütahya denied him a speaking role at the event despite his position as leader of the main opposition. The ceremony, attended by senior government officials commemorated the 102nd anniversary of the Battle of Dumlupınar.
“The governor’s office insisted that we not attend, expressing concern about our presence at the official ceremony,” Özel said during a visit to the nearby town of Dumlupınar. “They told us, ‘We can’t let you speak.’”
Özel pointed out that, as leader of the main opposition party, he holds an important place in the country’s protocol, traditionally being third in line. “If the vice president attends, we’re fourth. Ministers rank much lower. But they say, ‘Let the ministers speak, and Mr. Özel can listen.’ I’m willing to listen, but this isn’t right,” he said.
He accused the government of trying to stir up tension by sidelining his party, which he noted has a constitutionally recognized role as the main opposition. “This is not just an insult to the CHP but to the position of the main opposition itself,” he said.
Özel also warned that such actions could provoke frustration among his supporters. “Our members will not tolerate this. They won’t accept it. It could lead to an uproar. But I won’t give them that chance,” he stated.
The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) is accused of eroding democratic norms in the last decade.
During his visit to Dumlupınar, Özel vowed that his party would act differently if it came to power. “When we’re in charge, even if an AKP leader attends an event like this, they will be allowed to speak. We will govern with respect for everyone,” he said.
Victory Day in Turkey, celebrated annually on August 30, marks the Turkish victory at the Battle of Dumlupınar in 1922, which was a decisive moment in the country’s struggle for independence. The day is observed with ceremonies across the country, where political leaders traditionally deliver speeches at official events.