Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s Victory in the 2018 Turkish Presidential Election

On June 24, 2018, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan secured a significant victory in the Turkish presidential election, marking a pivotal moment in Turkey’s political landscape. This election was particularly noteworthy as it was the first to be held following a 2017 constitutional referendum that dramatically expanded the powers of the presidency.

Context Leading Up to the Election

• Constitutional Referendum of 2017: In April 2017, Turkey held a referendum that proposed 18 amendments to the Turkish constitution. The most significant change was the transition from a parliamentary system to a presidential system, which abolished the position of Prime Minister and concentrated executive power in the hands of the President. The referendum passed with a narrow margin, setting the stage for the 2018 elections.

• Political Climate: The period leading up to the election was marked by political tension and economic challenges. Erdoğan’s ruling party, the Justice and Development Party (AKP), faced criticism over issues such as press freedom, human rights, and economic management. However, Erdoğan maintained a strong base of support, particularly among conservative and rural voters.

The Election

• Candidates: Erdoğan ran as the candidate of the People’s Alliance, a coalition between the AKP and the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP). His main opponent was Muharrem İnce from the Republican People’s Party (CHP), with other candidates including Meral Akşener from the Good Party and Selahattin Demirtaş from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), who campaigned from prison.

• Results: Erdoğan won the presidency with approximately 52.6% of the vote, avoiding a runoff by securing more than 50% in the first round. His closest rival, Muharrem İnce, received about 30.6% of the vote.

Expanded Executive Powers

• Presidential System: With the new system in place, Erdoğan assumed expanded powers, including the ability to issue decrees, appoint senior officials, and directly intervene in the judiciary. The changes effectively centralized authority and reduced the checks and balances that existed under the parliamentary system.

Aftermath and Significance

• Domestic Impact: Erdoğan’s victory and the new presidential system led to significant changes in Turkey’s governance structure. Critics argued that these changes eroded democratic institutions and increased authoritarianism, while supporters claimed they would lead to more efficient governance.

• International Reactions: The international community had mixed reactions, with some expressing concern over the concentration of power and its implications for democracy and human rights in Turkey.

• Long-term Consequences: Erdoğan’s presidency under the new system has had lasting impacts on Turkey’s political and economic landscape, influencing its domestic policies and international relations.

In summary, the 2018 presidential election was a landmark event in Turkish history, solidifying Erdoğan’s leadership and ushering in a new era of governance with expanded presidential powers.