A former lawmaker from Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) has defected to President Erdoğan’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). Nimet Özdemir, previously representing İstanbul, officially joined the AKP amidst growing internal challenges within the CHP. This move coincides with a series of investigations and operations targeting municipalities governed by the CHP. The defection is viewed by some as a sign of increasing pressure on the opposition. The timing suggests a potential weakening of the CHP’s position as it faces both internal strife and external scrutiny from the government. The Anka news agency reported the event, highlighting the shifting political landscape in Turkey. This development adds to a period of political tension and uncertainty within the country.