Türkiye’s main opposition, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), has secured a significant victory in the recent local elections, maintaining control over pivotal cities including Istanbul and Ankara. Early results released on Sunday indicate that CHP led in the mayoral races, with incumbent Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu holding a commanding 10-point lead.
The CHP emerged victorious in 36 out of Türkiye’s 81 provinces, capturing 37 percent of the nationwide vote compared to the ruling Justice and Development Party’s (AKP) 36 percent. This marks CHP’s most substantial electoral success since President Recep Tayyip Erdogan rose to power two decades ago.
President Erdogan acknowledged the setback in a post-midnight address at the AKP headquarters in Ankara, describing the outcome as a “turning point.” He emphasized the need to respond to voter sentiment by advancing an economic program aimed at combating inflation, a key concern for many citizens.
The elections saw 61 million eligible voters, including one million first-time voters, participate in choosing provincial mayors, council members, and other local officials. The results are viewed as a barometer of Erdogan’s popularity, especially as he endeavors to regain control of major urban centers lost to the opposition five years ago.
In 2019, Imamoglu’s win in Istanbul was a major blow to the AKP, ending a 25-year reign in the city. That same year, the CHP also secured Ankara. However, Erdogan rebounded in 2023 by winning reelection and attaining a parliamentary majority with nationalist allies.
The latest election outcomes have revitalized the CHP, which had been grappling with division and low morale following its 2023 defeat. Looking ahead, if Imamoglu secures another term, he could emerge as a formidable challenger to Erdogan in the 2028 presidential elections.
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Türkiye's opposition set to hold power in key cities after elections
cgtn.com
