Turkey Elections

The murder of a headmaster at the hands of a minor sparks controversy. The shooter was a student who wanted ‘revenge’ for his expulsion. Pro-government unions (also) go on strike. Fr. Monge: education is only the ‘tip of the iceberg’. The four Akp reforms have overturned secular and scientific education. Erdogan's ‘nemesis’ and the rise of Imamoglu.

Erdoğan and Kılıçdaroğlu will face off in a second round on 28 May. Despite losses, the ruling coalition holds on to a parliamentary majority. The president hangs onto power thanks to self-interest and clientelism. Up to a million voters may have been unable to vote in areas hit in last February’s earthquake.

On 14 May, the country will go to the polls for parliamentary and presidential elections (with a possible runoff on the 28th) for a round characterised by great uncertainty. Voting abroad began at the end of April and closes today. Great uncertainty among expatriates, fights at the polling stations in France between pro-government and opposition groups. The electorate on its first vote, tired of the sultan's promises.

Only 117 female candidates could enter parliament after the vote on 14 May. A slight improvement on the 17% of the last elections in 2018, but still an indication of poor representation. In a climate of uncertainty Erdogan's election promises: the latest is free gas for all households from a newly discovered gas field.

The offices of the main opposition party have been attacked. Its candidate is challenging Erdoğan for the presidency. Shots have been fired and posters vandalised. The government is accused of creating a climate of fear and intimidation. According to the latest polls, no one is likely to win in the first round. Erdoğan and Kılıçdaroğlu are expected to be in the run-off.