Ankara mayor Mansur Yavas resigns from CHP

On September 23, 2026, Mansur Yavas, the mayor of Ankara, officially announced his resignation from the Republican People's Party (CHP). In a statement posted on his X account, Yavas confirmed that he will continue to serve as the mayor of the Turkish capital while transitioning to operate as an independent politician.

Yavas stated that his decision was not impulsive, but the result of extensive deliberation regarding the ongoing internal party crisis and legal disputes surrounding the CHP's recent congress. He expressed deep concern over the current state of Turkish politics, specifically highlighting the fallout following the March 19, 2026, arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, which he claims has contributed to a regrettable political climate.

The mayor emphasized that his identity and responsibilities as a public official require him to maintain integrity and honor the trust of his constituents. By distancing himself from the party, Yavas aims to uphold the prestige of his office. There are currently no indications of further political alignment, as he intends to remain an independent, focusing on his remaining tenure as mayor.