CHP Leader Proposes Rerun of Istanbul Mayoral Election

CHP leader Özgür Özel has proposed a rerun of the Istanbul mayoral election to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, according to T24. Özel suggested the resignation of all municipal councilors to pave the way for a new election, with imprisoned Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu as the CHP candidate. He believes the CHP would win within 60 days, emphasizing that the decision should ultimately rest with the voters. As a condition for accepting the proposal, Özel demanded an end to political pressure on the opposition and trials without pre-trial detention for opposition figures in custody. This move is considered significant given İmamoğlu's dual role as mayoral candidate and potential presidential candidate. The proposal comes amid heightened political tensions in Turkey following the recent local elections. A rerun of the Istanbul election could have significant implications for the country's political landscape. Ankara is expected to reject any military involvement in Iran, adding another layer of complexity to the regional political scene.