Reactions to Attack on CHP Leader Özel
Attack on CHP Leader Ozgur Ozel at Memorial Ceremony
A memorial ceremony for Sırrı Süreyya Önder, the late Parliamentary Deputy Chairman of the Parliament and Dem Party Istanbul Deputy, was held at the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) following his death from heart disease. The event took a violent turn when CHP leader Ozgur Ozel was attacked shortly after leaving the ceremony.
Witnesses report that an individual approached Ozel and struck him. The suspect, a 66-year-old man, was quickly apprehended by police. Ozel was escorted from the scene by security personnel as the situation unfolded.
In response to the incident, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that an investigation has been launched into the assault. They stated, "Today, an inquiry was initiated regarding the actions of the individual who carried out the attack, and he has been arrested. A detailed investigation is ongoing, and further developments will be communicated."
Condemnations from Political Figures
Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş took to social media to express his condemnation of the attack. He stated, “I strongly condemn the negative attack on the Republican People’s Party Chairman Mr. Ozgur Ozel. I believe the investigation will be thoroughly conducted.”
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya also condemned the assault, sharing his wishes for Ozel’s swift recovery, while Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunç remarked that the action was unacceptable. “Violence cannot be a legitimate tool for any opinion or disagreement,” he emphasized, confirming that legal actions were being pursued in relation to the incident.
AK Party spokesman Ömer Çelik added his voice to the chorus of condemnation, stating, “We condemn the attack on CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel. No attack on a political figure is acceptable, and those responsible will be held accountable under the law.”
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked widespread concern regarding political violence and safety in public discourse. Many observers see this attack as a concerning reflection of the current political climate in the country, emphasizing the need for a united stand against violence in politics.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of political leaders and fostering a peaceful environment for public dialogue.
