Local authorities in Istanbul have imposed a comprehensive ban on demonstrations and public gatherings in six districts until September 10.

According to media reports, the decision comes as former MP Gürsel Tekin and members of a temporary committee appointed by the court prepare to take over the Istanbul branch of the Republican People's Party (CHP). This follows a civil court ruling on September 2 that annulled the results of the party’s 2023 congress, which had elected Özgür Çelik as head of the Istanbul branch, citing electoral violations and financial bribery.

The court dismissed Çelik and his administration and appointed Tekin to lead a transitional committee, sparking internal conflict. Party leader Özgür Özel responded by expelling Tekin from the CHP for accepting the court’s decision.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that “the state will not allow the streets to become a stage for provocation,” emphasizing that “no one is above the law.”

Meanwhile, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül affirmed that the temporary committee has full authority and warned of legal consequences for anyone obstructing its work.

On the other hand, Çelik, who was removed by court order, described the party headquarters as “the people’s house,” asserting that members have a natural right to enter. CHP parliamentary deputy Ali Mahir Başarır said police had surrounded the building and blocked access, calling the situation “a full-blown coup.” ⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾⁽³⁾