Following his re-election on Sunday, May 28, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will continue to lead Turkey into a third decade, amidst challenges such as high inflation and the aftermath of a devastating earthquake.
Erdogan secured over 52% of the vote in Sunday’s presidential runoff, after narrowly missing an outright victory in the initial round. His victory over challenger Kemal Kilicdaroglu reflects the support of a majority of Turkish voters for his proven leadership.
Expressing gratitude for another five-year term, Erdogan stated, “We hope to be worthy of your trust, as we have been for 21 years.” He also mockingly bid farewell to his opponent, saying ‘Bye Bye Bye Kemal’, and declared, “The only winner today is Turkey.”
The announcement of his victory led to scenes of celebration, with Erdogan’s supporters filling the streets, honking their cars, and gathering to celebrate with the leader proclaiming, “It is not only us who won, it is Turkey. It is our nation that won with all its elements. It is our democracy.”
Despite Turkey’s high inflation and aftermath of powerful earthquakes, Erdogan’s victory has surprised many analysts. His prolonged leadership is expected to further consolidate his authoritative rule, given his history of eroding democratic institutions and crushing opposition.
Under Erdogan’s rule, Turkey has seen controversial constitutional changes, erosion of democratic institutions, and a crackdown on opposition voices, drawing criticism from human rights organizations and the international community.
His victory raises concerns about the potential for increased Islamic influence under his leadership, as Erdogan has gradually pushed Turkey towards a more religious stance, including the transformation of the historic Hagia Sophia into a mosque.