A wave of reactions in Turkey’s artistic community has been triggered by the political and judicial developments concerning the CHP, with prominent artists and creators taking public stances. Several of them announced they no longer permit the use of their works in political events and activities connected to Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, expressing their disagreement with recent developments. Zülfü Livaneli, who has already critically commented on the court decision, announced he does not allow the use of his works by the current CHP leadership that emerged from the Court of Appeals of Ankara’s annulment decision. “I do not give permission for my compositions to be used by the current leadership of the central CHP,” stated the renowned Turkish artist.
Turkey: “I demand my songs not be used by your administration”
Additionally, singer-songwriter Onur Akın reacted strongly to the use of his songs in a political context, demanding their immediate withdrawal and warning of legal measures. In his written statement to Kılıçdaroğlu, he stated: “It was not right, Mr. Kılıçdaroğlu, it was not proper. Those who applaud you are in a historical delusion and what you are doing will not be forgotten. I demand that my songs not be used by your administration, which includes your name and which I do not consider legitimate, and that they be removed from your digital platforms. Enough! Do not hurt this country, gentlemen. If the use of my songs continues, I will resort to justice.”
Sanatçılardan Kılıçdaroğlu’na yasak: “Eserlerimizi kullanmayın”https://t.co/T4m0fp0Fbq
— Medyascope (@medyascope) June 11, 2026
Artist Suavi positioned himself via social media, declaring he does not permit the use of his works by the new CHP leadership that emerged after the court decision, warning of legal action. Selda Bağcan also reacted, clarifying that she does not permit the use of her voice, compositions, and recordings in political or party activities. Sabahat Akkiraz, who had previously supported Kılıçdaroğlu, made a particularly sharp statement against the new leadership.
“CHP cannot be governed by a colonial governor with an imperialist attitude”
“CHP cannot be governed by a colonial governor with an imperialist attitude. He will leave as he came.” The family of the late artist Edip Akbayram announced they do not permit the use of his works in political contexts, arguing that this particular process does not align with his democratic values. Musician Ali Altay expressed his displeasure about the use of his song in the past. “I apologize to Atatürk. I withdraw my song ‘Justice-Law-Righteousness.'”
Also, musician Can Kazaz stated “I currently have no objection to the use of my music in Kılıçdaroğlu’s and his team’s campaigns. However, I will subsequently claim the full compensation in court and donate it to Özgür Özel’s campaigns. Let the path of justice begin.”
