Ankara, Dec 23 (V7N)- On the final day of the budget session in Turkey’s parliament, a major scuffle broke out between members of the ruling AK Party and the main opposition CHP, forcing Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus to suspend the session. The chaos lasted for about 10 minutes, with security struggling to restore order.

The confrontation began during the budget discussion late Sunday, when Mustafa Varank, an AK Party MP from Bursa, criticized CHP Chairman Özgür Özel from the podium, saying, “Your leader should not be afraid. Farmers in CHP-run cities are still waiting for free tractors.”

In response, CHP Group Deputy Chairman Gökhan Günaydin accused the government of “reaching the bottom in political mudslinging” and spreading propaganda against CHP-run municipalities. Tensions escalated further when CHP Deputy Chairman Ali Mahir Basari protested, leading to a direct exchange of punches. Several MPs from both parties became involved, creating a chaotic scene in the central chamber.

Despite the disorder, the 2026 central government budget law was passed with 320 votes in favor and 249 against, and the 2024 Final Accounts Law was approved by 316-247 votes.

The clash continued even during the parliamentary break, reflecting deep political polarization in Turkey. Both CHP Chairman Özgür Özel and Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) Chairman Devlet Bahçeli were present during the incident.

The violent episode has raised concerns about political tolerance and decorum within Turkey’s democratic institutions, highlighting the intensity of partisan rivalries ahead of upcoming national challenges.

END/SMA/AJ