CHP chair Özgür Özel and Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu have voiced strong objections to the seizure of DEM Party-run municipalities, including Mardin Metropolitan Municipality, Batman (Êlih) Municipality, and Halfeti (Xelfetî) Municipality in Urfa (Riha). The recent appointment of trustees to replace elected officials has been met with criticism from both leaders, who argue that these actions undermine democratic processes and the will of voters.

Özel expressed his frustration on social media, saying, "This morning, two more elected mayors, including Ahmet Türk—one of the most prominent voices for peace and dialogue in Turkish politics—were replaced by government-appointed trustees. We are facing a shameless, unscrupulous force that resorts to undemocratic means to seize municipalities it can’t win in elections. Let this be a warning: our patience is running over. Whatever it takes to fight this injustice will be done."

Istanbul mayor, Ekrem Imamoğlu echoed these sentiments, accusing the government of losing control and acting erratically. He announced an extraordinary meeting of the Turkish Municipalities Union (TBB) Executive Council to address the issue. In a social media post, he remarked: "Just a week ago, Ahmet Türk was mediating between families on behalf of the Vice President. Now he’s branded a terrorist. In a democracy, the continuity of voter representation is essential. If an elected official is removed, their replacement should also be an elected member, typically from the council. The right to choose belongs solely to the voters. I am returning from the UN Habitat meeting in Cairo tonight and will convene an emergency TBB session on Tuesday."