CHP Regulation Congress to Begin Tomorrow: Latest News in Turkey
The upcoming Constitutional Congress of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) is set to begin tomorrow in Ankara. The official opening of the congress, known as the Regulation Congress, will take place in the capital city after a symbolic opening was held in Sivas on the 105th anniversary of the Sivas Congress.
The Statutes Congress, dubbed the “Second Century Change Congress,” has invited only delegates, honorary board members, and former general chairmen to participate in the discussions. Deputy Chairman Gökhan Zeybek is expected to be elected as the new Chairman of the Council, with Chairman Özgür Özel delivering the opening speech.
Significant changes to the CHP regulation are anticipated, with nearly 20 articles expected to be amended based on the work of the Regulation Preparation Commission. One key change includes strengthening the position of the Secretary General, while also altering the nomination process for the chairman, who will no longer be nominated at congresses but can be a candidate if they choose to.
Candidates for the chairmanship will now need the support of 5 percent of delegates’ signatures to apply, with a maximum of 10 percent signatures allowed. Additionally, the draft statute discusses the inclusion of primary elections under the supervision of organizations, candidate polls, and a mixed system of candidate selection methods.
There is ongoing debate within the party regarding the enforcement of primary elections as the basis for judicial supervision, with some advocating for this approach. The draft statute also outlines a term limit for individuals serving on party boards, allowing a maximum of three consecutive terms for Members of Parliament, but exempting those who enter primary elections.
Following the congress, workshops will be held over the weekend to prepare for changes in the party program. The discussions and amendments made during the congress are expected to shape the future direction of the CHP as it enters its second century.
