Turkey's Kılıçdaroğlu signals possible support for İmamoğlu's presidential bid

İstem Kılıçdaroğlu, the chairman of Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), spoke exclusively with Euronews about recent judicial rulings and the party’s strategic outlook. He affirmed the legitimacy of the court‑ordered decision that reinstated him as CHP leader after a brief suspension, emphasizing that the ruling underscores the independence of the judiciary while also calling for swift implementation to avoid further internal disruption. Kılıçdaroğlu also addressed the case of Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, stating that although the mayor is not a political prisoner, his detention earlier this year was unwarranted and detrimental to democratic norms.

The interview concluded with Kılıçdaroğlu hinting at a possible endorsement of İmamoğlu should he decide to run for the presidency, noting that the CHP would consider supporting a candidate who can consolidate opposition votes and challenge the incumbent administration. He reiterated the party’s commitment to uphold legal processes and democratic principles while positioning itself as a viable alternative in Turkey’s upcoming electoral contests.