Turkish Court Rejects Case Threatening Main Opposition Leadership

A Turkish court recently dismissed a politically sensitive case that threatened to unseat Özgür Özel, leader of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), providing temporary relief to markets concerned about Turkey's political stability. The lawsuit, alleging vote-buying during the 2023 CHP leadership primary, was thrown out because the complainant was ineligible and the issue had become moot after the CHP held new leadership elections re-electing Özel. This verdict was welcomed by the opposition and supporters as a setback to government attempts to weaken the opposition, though the plaintiffs intend to appeal. Despite this legal victory, concerns remain about President Erdoğan's authoritarian approach and its impact on the rule of law and economic confidence. Özel has been a prominent critic of the government, accusing it of corruption and judicial interference, and his leadership has revitalized the opposition following a strong showing in the 2024 municipal elections. Meanwhile, European politicians like Kati Piri emphasize the importance of resolving the Kurdish question as key to Turkey's democratization, reflecting broader hopes for political reform amid ongoing tensions.