Recent developments in Istanbul: Protests over a ban, the appointment of a CHP trustee, and political disagreements among congress members.

In a surprising turn of events, the CHP (Republican People's Party) Istanbul provincial leadership has been removed by the 45th Civil Court of First Instance due to alleged irregularities in delegate elections during the party's 38th Ordinary Congress.

The court's decision, announced on September 8, 2023, has sparked a wave of political tension in Istanbul. Gursel Tekin, appointed as a temporary trustee, will formally assume his role on the same date. The details of the alleged irregularities, however, remain unspecified in the article.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya issued a warning against defying court decisions and mobilizing the public in violation of legal rulings. He stated that ignoring court decisions and calling citizens to the streets would constitute a defiance of the law.

The Istanbul Governor's Office announced a ban on public gatherings in the districts of Besiktas, Beyoglu, Eyupsultan, Kagithane, Sariyer, and Sisli from September 7 to 10, 2025, a move that came shortly after the CHP Youth Branch called for a demonstration under the slogan "shoulder to shoulder."

Reports have emerged that CHP lawmakers were denied access to the CHP provincial headquarters, sparking public criticism. Police have tightened security around the headquarters following the ruling.

The CHP leadership has rejected the court's decision, describing it as political interference. Some party members may face prison terms due to their involvement in the alleged irregularities during the disputed congress. Evidence, including recordings and witness statements, was reviewed by prosecutors, with some party members facing potential prison terms of one to three years.

The ban on public gatherings and the appointment of a trustee to the CHP provincial branch have contributed to the ongoing dispute over the congress. The political tension in Istanbul continues, with the CHP Central Executive Board calling for an emergency meeting to discuss next steps.

The CHP Istanbul leadership was removed by the court, but the details of the alleged irregularities are not specified in the article. Gursel Tekin and a four-member committee were appointed as temporary trustees by the court. The Istanbul provincial congress, held on October 8, 2023, saw Ozgur Celik elected as leader, with 342 votes against Cemal Canpolat's 310.

Allegations of bribery, unauthorized venue, and unlawful delegate increase were made regarding the disputed congress. The CHP Istanbul headquarters was blocked, and entry was restricted, adding to the tension.

As the situation unfolds, the CHP and its supporters continue to face challenges, with the future of the Istanbul branch uncertain. The party and its supporters will undoubtedly be looking for a resolution to this dispute in the coming days.

Recent developments in Istanbul: Protests over a ban, the appointment of a CHP trustee, and political disagreements among congress members.