MP resigns from CHP to join Akşener’s new party

ANKARA

Aytun Çıray, a main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) deputy for the western province of İzmir, has resigned from his party to join a new party to be formed by Meral Akşener, a former Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) deputy.

Çıray was first elected to parliament in 2011 as a CHP deputy despite having a background in center-right politics.

In a written statement issued on Oct. 23, he urged the need for a new political movement that would address Turkey’s problems, citing it as a reason behind his decision to join Akşener’s party, which will be formed on Oct. 25.

Çıray will be among the founders of the party.

“It’s something you have to ask him [Çıray] directly,” Akşener told reporters earlier on Oct. 23 when asked about the potential move by the CHP deputy.

“We have no intention to form a group in parliament by transferring lawmakers from the AKP [Justice and Development Party], the CHP or the MHP,” she said.

Four former deputies of the MHP, Nuri Okutan, Ümit Özdağ, Yusuf Halaçoğlu and İsmail Ok, are also set to join the new party, which is expected to help Akşener’s movement secure five seats in parliament.