Erdogan Weakened in Turkey's Elections: A Comprehensive Analysis

To TIBAULT SONGMENE Le May 16 308

TOPSHOT - Supporters of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan holds a flag of his portrait outside the AK Party headquarters after polls closed in Turkey's presidential and parliamentary elections in Ankara, Turkey May 15, 2023. Turkey is braced for its first election runoff after a night of high drama President showed Recep Tayyip Erdogan edging ahead of his secular rival but failing to secure a first-round win. (Photo by Adem ALTAN / AFP)

Weakened Erdogan in the Elections in Türkiye: A Comprehensive Analysis

1 Erdogan Weakened in Turkey's Elections: A Comprehensive Analysis

Recent political events in Turkey have highlighted an increasingly tense situation. President Erdogan, although not elected in the first round, still performed better than expected. However, the opposition, led mainly by the CHP, disputed this result and even claimed to be in the lead.

2. Challenge of the Opposition

The opposition expressed outrage when the AKP demanded a recount of votes in almost all the constituencies where Kemal Kiliçdaroglu was in the lead. This action was seen as blatant obstruction. The Central Election Commission (YSK) has still not officially announced the results due to these recounts. Nevertheless, it is obvious that there will be a second round.

3. Potential Power of Kiliçdaroglu

If Kiliçdaroglu were to win the election in the second round, his room for maneuver would be considerable. Since the 2017 constitutional reform, Parliament has become a mere registry chamber, similar to Vladimir Putin's Duma. The president, who is also prime minister, governs by decree, without checks and balances.

4. The Future of Turkish Elections

The future of the Turkish elections is uncertain. With growing tensions between the AKP and the opposition, it is difficult to predict how the situation will develop. It is clear, however, that these elections are a turning point for Turkey and will have a significant impact on the country's political landscape.

The elections in Turkey have highlighted growing political polarization. With Erdogan weakened, it remains to be seen how the opposition will navigate this uncertain political climate. There is no doubt that the coming events will have a profound impact on Turkey's political future.