Writing in Radikal, columnist Avni Ozgurel argues that the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) underwent its most significant transformation in the wake of the September 1980 military coup, with the change becoming visible under late leader Alpaslan Turkes and even more pronounced under current chairman Devlet Bahceli.
Today's MHP rejects violence, favors debating opponents on the merits of ideas, and pursues political influence through building a solid parliamentary presence rather than seeking coalition arrangements, Ozgurel writes. He notes that accusations against the party have diminished and that left-wing critics no longer target it as routinely as they once did.
Ozgurel dismisses calls for the party to return to street activism, describing such pressure as incitement likely driven by outside forces that do not wish Türkiye well.
Looking ahead to the party congress, Ozgurel does not anticipate surprises in its outcome. He says Bahceli's real challenges will come afterward: crafting an electoral platform that resonates with voters, and personally reaching out to business figures, diplomats, civic organizations, and artists to broaden the party's appeal.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in November 2006, in its own words.