Turks Prepare to Vote in Local Elections with Focus on Istanbul
Turks are gearing up to head to the polls next Sunday for local elections, with all eyes on the key city of Istanbul. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, looking to regain control of the city after a significant defeat in the 2019 polls, has put his support behind former environment minister Murat Kurum in the mayoral race.
The 2019 elections marked a turning point as the secular opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) reclaimed Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, breaking Erdogan’s long-standing grip on power. The defeat in Istanbul was particularly significant for Erdogan, who began his political career in the city and has now set his sights on reclaiming it.
Erdogan’s opponent in the 2019 election, Ekrem Imamoglu, emerged as a strong contender and a symbol of hope for those opposing Erdogan’s ruling party. With Imamoglu seen as a potential challenger for the presidency in 2028, the upcoming local elections hold great importance for both sides.
However, the opposition faces challenges of its own, with internal divisions and the emergence of new candidates from the pro-Kurdish DEM Party threatening to split the anti-Erdogan vote. The lack of unity among opposition parties could cost Imamoglu crucial support in his bid to retain the mayoral seat.
As the campaign heats up, Erdogan has taken center stage with daily rallies broadcast on television, while opposition candidates rely on social media to reach voters. The government’s struggle to control soaring inflation could also impact Kurum’s chances in the election.
Istanbul, often referred to as the “biggest prize in Turkish politics,” holds immense significance for Erdogan and his party. With its vast municipal resources and large population, winning back Istanbul is crucial for Erdogan’s political agenda.
Polls indicate a close race in Istanbul, with some experts suggesting that Imamoglu holds a slight lead. However, the gap between poll predictions and actual election results remains uncertain, leaving room for surprises on election day.
In Ankara, CHP mayor Mansur Yavas is also facing a tough battle for re-election, with AKP’s nationalist allies putting up a strong fight. Meanwhile, the DEM Party is expected to secure victories in Kurdish-majority regions in the southeast, despite facing challenges from state-appointed administrators.
As the countdown to the local elections begins, all eyes are on Istanbul and Ankara, where the outcome could have far-reaching implications for Turkey’s political landscape. With Erdogan and Imamoglu at the forefront of the race, the stage is set for a high-stakes showdown that will shape the country’s future political direction.