Mass CHP Defections to YENİ Party: How Turkey’s Political Landscape is Shifting

The departure of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu from the CHP to the YENİ Party marks a significant shift in Turkey’s political landscape. Kasım Karaköse, along with the İmamoğlu district leadership, 9 council members, and the district organization, announced their departure from the party. He stated, 'We cannot remain with those who are ruining the party for others' interests.' Sarıçam district head Sercan Polat also said, 'We will fight in a new party to keep alive the hope of citizens rather than engaging in a distant and disconnected politics.' These developments are linked to CHP’s loss of local influence and the growth of the YENİ Party. The changing public trust in political parties is raising questions about how it will impact future election outcomes.