Istanbul Mayoral Election: A Pivotal Moment for Erdogan and Turkey
This Sunday's local elections in Istanbul and Ankara carry significant implications for President Erdogan's political future and Turkey's domestic and international politics.
- Millions of Turkish citizens will vote this Sunday to elect local administrators, with Istanbul's mayoral race being the focal point.
- President Erdogan's AKP aims to reclaim Istanbul and Ankara, lost to the opposition in 2019, in a bid to solidify his political dominance.
- The outcome in Istanbul, where Erdogan began his political career, is seen as crucial for both the ruling party and the opposition.
- Erdogan describes the local elections as his 'final' electoral test, amid discussions of a new constitution that could extend his political career.
- The elections' results could influence Turkey's foreign policy, potentially impacting relations with regional neighbors and global powers.