Ekrem İmamoğlu Submits Candidacy for Presidential Primary

The application was submitted on İmamoğlu’s behalf by his lawyer, Mehmet Pehlivan, to CHP Deputy Chair for Election and Internal Party Law, Gül Çiftçi. CHP Istanbul MP Turan Taşkın Özer accompanied Pehlivan during the submission.

Last week, 21 CHP provincial mayors called on İmamoğlu to run for president. Candidates needed at least 20 parliamentary signatures to qualify, and over 100 MPs have reportedly endorsed İmamoğlu’s candidacy.

The signatures will be presented to the CHP Central Executive Committee (MYK) on Saturday, February 22, after which the party will officially announce the candidates who will compete in the March 23 primary.

İmamoğlu’s Statement

İmamoğlu shared a video of himself signing the application on social media, stating: "Today, I took the first step toward a new beginning by officially applying to become the presidential candidate of the Republican People's Party, an honor I proudly hold. Together with our people, who deserve a dignified life, freedom, justice, prosperity, and unity, we are embarking on a journey. Our goal is to establish a democratic and strong state, enrich our nation, and ensure equality and freedom for all citizens. We will swiftly implement parliamentary democracy, separation of powers, and effective checks and balances."

"We Will Prioritize Democratic Participation"

İmamoğlu also emphasized his commitment to restoring trust in governance: "We will prioritize democratic participation, alleviate our nation’s concerns, and reignite hope and ambition for the future. Justice will be the foundation of our state, not a tool of power. We will free institutions, science, arts, sports, and media from partisanship. We will not view political rivals as enemies but will foster a fair, civil, and honorable competition. Together, we will protect our country, unity, and the vision of a strong Türkiye. We will work hard, prosper greatly, and ensure fair distribution. We will increase our national wealth and never tire or give up in this struggle. With the strong participation and prayers of our nation, we will make our Republic shine like a star in its second century."