Hulki Cevizoğlu: Kılıçdaroğlu'nun En Büyük Hatası...

The Turkish political landscape has always been filled with surprises, but perhaps none as unexpected as the recent talks between the Republican People's Party (CHP) and the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP). These two parties, once seen as polar opposites, are now contemplating an alliance ahead of the upcoming elections. But why are they suddenly considering this partnership? And what could it mean for the future of Turkish politics?

A Questionable Timing

To understand the significance of this potential alliance, we must first examine the timing of these talks. On March 18th, when Turkey celebrates the victory at the Battle of Çanakkale and commemorates fallen soldiers, HDP and CHP leaders are scheduled to meet. Many questioned the timing of this meeting, suggesting it was a deliberate and disrespectful move. It raises the question: if the CHP doesn't value the significance of this historic event or the sacrifices of the fallen soldiers, what else does it disregard?

The Puzzle Within CHP

To comprehend the complexities surrounding the CHP-HDP talks, we must acknowledge the internal dynamics of the CHP itself. The party is not a monolithic entity but rather a puzzle composed of various factions. Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, the leader of the CHP, may be its official head, but he doesn't wholly represent the party's diverse ideological spectrum. Within the CHP, there are multiple factions and coalitions, each with its own agenda and worldview.

The Prone Mistakes of Kılıçdaroğlu

Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu's leadership has not been without its share of missteps. One of his most notable errors was the timing of a recent court decision regarding Ekrem İmamoğlu, the CHP's Istanbul mayoral candidate. The day the decision was announced, Kılıçdaroğlu happened to be in Germany. This was not a coincidence, as the decision date was well-known in advance. Kılıçdaroğlu's failure to be present for such a critical moment raises questions about his strategic decision-making and understanding of the party's priorities.

The Strange Dynamics of the HDP

The HDP's involvement in the potential alliance is equally intriguing. The party has a history of being associated with the Kurdish nationalist movement and has even faced accusations of links to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the EU. It is surprising that the CHP would consider aligning itself with a party that has such controversial ties. Could it be a desperate attempt to gain the support of HDP voters and increase their chances of winning the upcoming election?

The Birth of a New Alliance

The formation of the "Emek ve Özgürlük İttifakı" (Labor and Freedom Alliance), consisting of the HDP, CHP, and other left-wing organizations, is a significant development for Turkish politics. The primary aim of this alliance is to overcome the 10% electoral threshold and secure representation in the parliament. However, the alliance's long-term implications could potentially go beyond mere electoral politics.

A Possible Rift Within CHP

One significant question that arises from this alliance is whether the CHP will field its own candidate for the presidency or back a joint candidate with the HDP. The leader of the Workers' Party, a key member of the alliance, has openly expressed his desire to run for president. Could this be an indication that the alliance may ultimately challenge Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu's leadership? The CHP's struggle with internal divisions and competing factions might finally come to a head.

The Controversial Altılı Masa

Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu's decision to establish the "altılı masa" (the six-party consultation forum) can also be seen as a miscalculation. Although it was intended to foster collaboration and inclusivity, it has had the opposite effect, fracturing the CHP and intensifying internal divisions. The forum has arguably been more successful at creating crises than solving them. The CHP's inability to effectively manage these crises raises doubts about its capability to lead the country.

The Uncomfortable Reality

Ultimately, the potential alliance between the CHP and HDP, despite its political motives, raises deeper questions about the values and principles of both parties. Are they willing to put aside their differences for strategic gain, or do they genuinely share a common vision for the country? These questions, along with the dynamics within CHP, the controversial nature of the HDP, and the alliance's potential impact, highlight the complex and ever-evolving nature of Turkish politics.

Conclusion

As the CHP and HDP navigate the uncharted waters of a potential alliance, Turkish politics continues to surprise and intrigue. The interplay between internal party dynamics, controversial decisions, and strategic maneuvering creates a fascinating narrative. Only time will tell if this unusual alliance will lead to lasting change or if it is merely a fleeting moment in the ever-evolving political landscape of Turkey.