SEMRA PELEK
A video released just before Turkey's March 31, 2024, local elections has sparked legal action against former CHP Istanbul Chair Canan Kaftancıoğlu and 21 other party members. Accused of illegally collecting donations, the case has become a focal point of political controversy. CHP claims the investigation is a "political plot."
Origins of the case: pre-election video release
On March 11, a video showing men counting stacks of cash around a table circulated on social media. It was alleged that the footage was shot at CHP Istanbul Provincial Headquarters. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan quickly linked the money to the PKK in Kandil, Iraq, escalating tensions ahead of the local elections. "Bundles of dollars and euros are being sent to Kandil," he claimed, further fueling political debates.
CHP's response: calls of a 'political plot'
CHP denied the allegations, stating that the video was from 2019 and showed legitimate funds used to purchase a party building. Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and other officials dismissed the claims as an electoral smear campaign. "This is a trap to win the election," İmamoğlu said. CHP spokesperson Deniz Yücel also criticized the timing, calling it a "pre-election provocation."
Legal proceedings and charges
Despite CHP’s denials, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office launched an investigation. The indictment includes charges under the Political Parties Law, accusing the defendants of unlawfully collecting donations. The case involves prominent figures such as Maltepe Mayor Ali Kılıç, former Şişli Mayor Muammer Keskin, and İBB Sports Club President Fatih Keleş. If convicted, they could face prison sentences and a loss of political rights.
Allegations without evidence of PKK links
Though Erdoğan linked the video to the PKK, the indictment, accepted by the Istanbul 59th Criminal Court, contains no evidence of such a connection. Instead, the prosecution focuses on whether funds were collected and used improperly.
Court's request and future steps
In the first hearing on October 25, the court requested financial audit reports from the Constitutional Court (AYM) on CHP's 2019 accounts. The AYM's response, submitted at the second hearing on November 29, stated that the review was ongoing and internal reports could not be shared with other institutions.
The trial continues to draw significant attention, seen by many as emblematic of the political tensions and legal challenges faced by opposition parties in Turkey.
