Ruptly
"Clashes erupted after Turkish security forces stormed the headquarters of the Republican People's Party (CHP) in Ankara on Sunday to enforce a court ruling ordering the removal of its leader, Ozgur Ozel, from party leadership. Footage shows tear gas being deployed by the headquarter's gates. Inside, party members barricaded the entrance with chairs and tables. Security forces eventually managed to enter the building, which sustained visible material damage. On Thursday, a court annulled the CHP leadership election that brought Ozel to power in 2023 and appointed former leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu as interim head of the party. Kilicdaroglu had previously lost the 2023 presidential race to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Court of Appeal said the 2023 congress was annulled over alleged irregularities, including claims that Ozel secured backing through promises of jobs and political favours. A lower court had previously dismissed the case for lack of sufficient evidence. Ozel announced that Turkey's main opposition party would not recognise the court's decision on Saturday, and indicated that he would continue to lead the CHP's parliamentary group until a new party congress is held. Turkey's Supreme Election Board has reportedly rejected the CHP's appeal against the decision, while the public prosecutor's office moved forward with further proceedings linked to the disputed congress. Party MPs reaffirmed their support for Ozel by re-electing him in a symbolic vote. Meanwhile, party supporters held rallies in Ankara and Istanbul on Friday to protest against the ruling, which also led to the suspension of Ozel and members of the party's executive board. The CHP has faced increasing judicial pressure since 2024, with opposition figures arguing that corruption investigations targeting party officials are 'politically motivated.' The Turkish government denies those accusations and maintains that the judiciary operates independently."
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