Bringing Forward the 2028 Elections on the Agenda in Turkey
A presidential adviser stated that the 2028 elections could be held in March or April, noting that this move could pave the way for Erdoğan to run again.
It has been reported that the presidential and parliamentary elections in Turkey, currently planned for May 2028, could be held at an earlier date. Making a statement on the matter, a presidential adviser announced that the vote could be brought forward to March or April.
Statements Regarding the Election Date
Mehmet Uçum, an adviser to President Tayyip Erdoğan, stated in an evaluation to journalists in Ankara that holding the 2028 elections in March or April has now become almost certain.
Bringing forward the elections, which are scheduled for May according to the current calendar, is considered a formula that would allow Erdoğan to overcome constitutional term limits and run for office again.
Constitutional Status and Parliamentary Approval
The presidential system introduced by the constitutional amendment adopted in 2017 includes a two-term rule. However, according to the constitution, if parliament decides to hold early elections before its term expires, the current president is paved the way to run as a candidate once more.
Devlet Bahçeli, leader of the MHP and an ally of Erdoğan, called on parliament last week to decide on early elections at an appropriate time so that Erdoğan could run again.
Seat Distribution in Parliament
To adopt an early election decision in Turkey, a three-fifths majority in parliament, meaning the support of at least 360 out of 600 deputies, is required.
The conservative alliance consisting of the AK Party, led by Erdoğan, and the MHP holds a total of 331 seats. This indicates that at least 29 more votes from other political parties are needed for an early election decision.
Approach of the Opposition
Main opposition leader Özgür Özel stated in an evaluation last week that limiting the issue merely to seeking ways for Tayyip Erdoğan's re-election is unacceptable.
While opposition parties are also calling for early elections, they cite the desire to create an opportunity to criticize and change Erdoğan's economic policies as the main rationale for this demand.