Istanbul, Turkey – The main opposition party in Turkey has secured significant victories in the major cities of Istanbul and Ankara, dealing a blow to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The results mark a major setback for Erdogan, who aimed to regain control of these cities less than a year after securing a third term as president. However, opposition candidates Ekrem Imamoglu and Mansur Yavas emerged victorious in Istanbul and Ankara, respectively, for the secular opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP).
Imamoglu, who previously won the Istanbul mayoral race in 2019, secured a second victory against Erdogan’s AK Party candidate, garnering more than 50% of the vote. This defeat not only marks the first time in 21 years that Erdogan’s party has been defeated across the country but also signifies a turning point in Turkish politics.
In Ankara, Yavas achieved a significant lead over his opponent, declaring victory early on in the election. The CHP’s success extended beyond Istanbul and Ankara, as they were also poised to win in other major cities like Izmir, Bursa, Adana, and Antalya.
Acknowledging the election’s outcome, Erdogan commented on the importance of respecting the people’s will and indicated that the defeat would serve as a turning point for his party. The defeat also raises questions about Erdogan’s future political plans, as speculation about potential constitutional changes to allow him to stand for reelection in 2028 is now uncertain.
Imamoglu and Yavas’ victories were celebrated by supporters in Istanbul, who gathered to express their trust and faith in the opposition candidates. The elections reaffirmed the citizens’ desire for change and marked a significant shift in the political landscape of Turkey.
This unexpected turn of events in the local elections highlights the growing discontent with Erdogan’s government, particularly in the face of economic challenges, high inflation rates, and interest rates. Despite Erdogan’s pledge to learn from the defeat and renew his party, the opposition’s success in key cities like Istanbul and Ankara underscores a shifting political climate in Turkey.