Authorities impede access to CHP's Istanbul headquarters following a judicial decision

In a dramatic turn of events in Türkiye, the Republican People's Party (CHP) Istanbul headquarters was placed under a police siege on Sunday night, following a court ruling that temporarily removed the local leadership and appointed interim administrators.

The removed chairman, Ozgur Celik, remains in the chairman's office and posted on social media that they will protect the party's building. Ozgur Celik's message read: "We will protect our people's house."

CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel, in response, called the police blockade a violation of their home and urged authorities to follow the law. He also accused the authorities of creating a security problem and denied any calls for violence.

The CHP announced an emergency congress to block potential trustees. CHP youth organizations called for supporters to gather at the Istanbul headquarters, prompting a ban on demonstrations in six districts.

Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavas questioned the reason for preventing party members from entering their own party building. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that ignoring court decisions and bringing people to the streets is challenging the law.

Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc, in a statement, emphasised the importance of respecting judicial decisions and avoiding street calls that could create tension and unrest in society.

NetBlocks, an organisation monitoring internet restrictions worldwide, confirmed detecting restrictions on various social media platforms from Türkiye. Users in Türkiye reported difficulties accessing social media platforms, including Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and WhatsApp, following Sunday's events.

RTUK Chairman Ebubekir Sahin warned broadcasters against content that threatens public order, promotes violence, or could provoke masses, especially making calls for people to take to the streets.

Ozgur Ozel, in a show of unity, stated that he is doing his part so that no one's nose bleeds and urged others to do the same. He further urged all party members to defend what he called "our father's house, Ataturk's house," stating: "Those who put our father's house under police siege should be ashamed. They should know that defending the CHP is defending the Republic."

The events outside the CHP headquarters and related social media posts have also been the subject of criminal investigations initiated by Istanbul prosecutors. The situation remains tense as the political landscape in Türkiye continues to evolve.

Authorities impede access to CHP's Istanbul headquarters following a judicial decision