Launch of the Socialist International Network of Local and Regional Authorities
During the Istanbul SI Council on 24 May, in a special working lunch, the Socialist International Network of Local and Regional Authorities was launched.
The SI President Pedro Sánchez, in his speech, highlighted the growing importance of regions and cities in creating human-centred societies. He also reiterated that global challenges are felt more than ever in our daily lives and that regional and local authorities can bring a number of practical solutions easily perceived by citizens.
Chantal Kambiwa, the SI General Coordinator, stated that this is the first global progressive network of regional and local authorities, an initiative that will facilitate the exchange of good practices and networking among elected representatives of different continents.
Özgür Özel, CHP leader, described the big success of his party in the last local elections in Türkiye and the challenges faced by opposition mayors through a series of unlawful prosecutions.
Participants agreed to nominate Ahmet Aras, Mayor of the Muğla Metropolitan Municipality, as the first Chair/Coordinator of the Network.
Ahmet Aras happily accepted to take over this role and promised to do his best to make the network a success.
He also added:
“As local governments governed by the CHP, we are responsible for managing 65% of Türkiye’s population. Today, we are the leading political party in Türkiye, and we increasingly feel the strength of our people’s support with each passing day.
We will further strengthen our power through the Local and Regional Authorities Network we have established under the umbrella of the Socialist International, of which we are a member.
This network is not only a platform for inter-municipal cooperation, but also an international line of struggle that defends peace, democracy, the environment, human rights, and the will of the people.
As the Socialist International Local and Regional Authorities Network, we will raise our voices against any interference with the will of the people, wherever it may occur in the world. We will stand for democracy, equality, and free cities.Dear friends,
Unfortunately, democracy in Türkiye is going through a serious test today. Our elected mayors, especially the Mayor of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, Mr. Ekrem İmamoğlu, along with their colleagues, are being subjected to unlawful and politically motivated trials, and are being deprived of their freedom. The appointment of government trustees in place of elected mayors is a blatant blow to the will of the people expressed at the ballot box.
The strongest voice against this unlawfulness and injustice is rising right here, in this very hall.
The solidarity and resolute stance shown by the members of the Socialist International is not only felt in this hall, but also serves as a source of hope for all those fighting for democracy in regions where authoritarianism is on the rise. I sincerely thank you all for this powerful show of solidarity.”
Participants expressed once again their full support for the Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu, and promised to continue the efforts for his release.
