The lead-up to the general elections in Turkey on May 14 was marked by a challenging political landscape for Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the country’s long-standing leader. Opinion polls suggested that Erdogan, who had been in power since 2003, was facing a difficult race. Turkey was grappling with hyperinflation, and the value of the national currency, the lira, was plummeting. Additionally, a devastating earthquake in February claimed the lives of approximately 50,000 people, prompting concerns about the government’s building permit policies.
Despite these challenges, Erdogan’s main opposition put forth a united candidate, hoping to capitalize on the discontent and build a viable challenge to Erdogan’s rule. The opposition, which had been fragmented since Erdogan’s Justice and Development Party (AKP) came to power, saw this election as an opportunity to rally their forces. However, even with this united front, they were unable to unseat Erdogan.
In the first round of voting, Erdogan secured 49.5% of the vote, while his main rival, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, a former bureaucrat, garnered 44.9%. The close margin pushed the race into a second round. Despite the opposition’s efforts, Erdogan emerged victorious in the run-off, winning 52.1% of the vote compared to Kilicdaroglu’s 47.9%. As a result, Erdogan’s rule was extended for another five years.
Erdogan’s ability to retain power amidst challenging circumstances can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, he maintained a strong support base among conservative and religious voters who admired his emphasis on Islamic values and social welfare programs. These supporters viewed Erdogan as a leader who championed their interests and defended their values.
Additionally, Erdogan’s government focused on cultivating a cult of personality around him, projecting an image of a strong and decisive leader. This resonated with many voters who saw him as a symbol of stability and strength in a region plagued by turmoil. Erdogan’s charisma and ability to connect with the public through populist rhetoric played a significant role in his electoral success.
Furthermore, the fragmented nature of the opposition worked to Erdogan’s advantage. Despite attempts to unite, the opposition lacked a cohesive strategy and message, which diluted their impact and made it challenging to present a viable alternative to Erdogan’s rule. This disarray within the opposition provided Erdogan with an opportunity to consolidate his support and exploit the divisions among his challengers.
Erdogan’s victory in the face of economic challenges, natural disasters, and a united opposition demonstrated his political resilience and ability to navigate difficult circumstances. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the electoral process and political environment in Turkey have faced criticism in recent years, with concerns raised about the erosion of democratic institutions and restrictions on freedom of expression.
Looking ahead, Erdogan’s extended rule raises questions about the future direction of Turkey and the state of its democracy. As he continues to consolidate power, it remains to be seen how his leadership will impact the country’s economy, human rights, and international relationships.