Daijiworld Media Network - Ankara

Ankara, Oct 24: A Turkish court on Thursday dismissed a case seeking to remove the main opposition party’s leader and annul its 2023 congress, easing pressure on President Tayyip Erdogan’s rivals after a year-long legal crackdown.

The case in Ankara targeted the Republican People's Party (CHP) and its chairman, Ozgur Ozel, amid allegations of irregularities in the party’s 2023 congress. The court ruled the case had no substance, noting that Ozel was re-elected as party leader in an extraordinary congress last month.

The verdict boosted Turkish financial markets, with the main Borsa Istanbul index rising more than 4% and the lira strengthening against the dollar. The decision comes after a period of political tension, including the jailing of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, CHP’s presidential candidate and Erdogan’s chief rival, which had previously shaken markets.

Ozel, 51, known for his combative style, rose to prominence leading anti-government rallies following Imamoglu’s arrest. Had the court ruled against him, it could have caused significant disarray within the opposition and strengthened Erdogan’s prospects of extending his 22-year rule.

The centrist CHP, which denies all charges, remains level with Erdogan’s conservative AK Party in polls. The next presidential election is scheduled for 2028, though an earlier poll may be required if Erdogan seeks another term.

Separately, hundreds of CHP members, including Imamoglu, face ongoing corruption-related charges, which the party calls politicised. The Erdogan administration maintains that the judiciary operates independently.