The Kemalist Revolutionary Stance and CHP’s “Normalization” Process: A Legitimation of AKP Politics?
Far from adopting a revolutionary stance in line with Kemalism, organizing the people, and carrying out necessary actions, the CHP has become a populist party that has developed vague statements and is unable to even offer strong criticism, as we have been discussing for years.
The Turkish Republic was founded by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, a revolutionary leader who implemented profound reforms to establish a modern state. Atatürk combined Western advancements with traditional Turkish state structures to build a new foundation for the country. Secularism, rationality, and popular sovereignty were the cornerstones of his revolutionary stance. However, today, the Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi (CHP), long regarded as the protector of Atatürk’s legacy, is criticized for legitimizing the authoritarian policies of the AKP under the guise of “normalization.” Critics see this as a deviation from Atatürk’s principles and a deliberate move to ensure the AKP’s long-term power.
Atatürk’s Revolutionary Stance: A Model from the Past for the Future
Atatürk was not only a leader of the independence war but also a reformer who profoundly changed Turkish society and the state. With the founding of the Republic, he established secularism and the rule of law as the foundation of the new state. While taking inspiration from Western achievements, he did not forget the values of Turkish history. His major reforms included the adoption of civil law, alphabet reform, strengthening women’s rights, and reforms in education. These reforms aimed to modernize society comprehensively. In this sense, innovation and rationality were central to his revolutionary approach.
Atatürk’s vision was not only to change the political structure but also to emphasize individual freedom, education, and social justice. His goal was to prevent authoritarian regimes and strengthen the rights of the people. However, today’s CHP seems to be straying from these principles.
CHP and the “Normalization” Process: A Departure from the Kemalist Legacy?
The CHP, long known as a defender of Atatürk’s values, has politically shifted in recent years. Under the label of “normalization,” the party is accused of downplaying and even legitimizing the authoritarian tendencies of the AKP. This has led to disappointment both within the party and among the public.
- Normalizing AKP’s Policies
After the 2019 local elections, the CHP seems to have softened its stance towards the AKP. Critics argue that the party is making the AKP’s repressive and authoritarian measures more acceptable under the banner of “normalization.” Instead of strongly opposing human rights abuses, the erosion of press freedom, and the undermining of judicial independence, the CHP appears too lenient.
- Weakening the Opposition
Atatürk’s revolutionary stance was defined by the will to transform the system. However, the CHP appears to be losing this will in the face of the AKP’s growing dominance. While the AKP expands its power, the CHP fails to organize a strong societal opposition. This allows the AKP to further solidify its authoritarian hold, undermining the country’s democratization in the long term.
A Deliberate Political Maneuver?
The question of whether the CHP’s “normalization” strategy is a conscious decision aimed at ensuring the AKP’s long-term power is debatable. Critics suggest that the CHP is deliberately legitimizing the AKP’s rule and policies to broaden its political base. The lack of criticism towards the AKP’s authoritarian governance strengthens this view.
Conclusion: A Defeat?
The CHP’s “normalization” process is seen by many as a departure from Atatürk’s revolutionary values. This development not only disappoints the CHP base but also endangers the future of Turkish democracy. If the CHP continues this course, it may contribute to the permanent entrenchment of the AKP’s authoritarian system.
Atatürk’s legacy is based on fighting oppression and authoritarianism. The CHP must confront this responsibility to defend the people’s rights and secure Turkey’s future. Yet, at present, it seems more inclined to contribute to the normalization of authoritarian rule in Turkey.