The authorand: «Hope has returned. Women played a very important role in the results of this election. More mayors were elected”
FROM OUR REPORTER
ISTANBUL — «LTurkey is a complicated country that can surprise its own people.” The happiness for an unexpected result can be heard from the voice of Elif Shafakthe author of The Bastard of Istanbul, among the most authoritative voices of Turkish literature. «Before the elections I hoped in my heart that the opposition would do well in the big cities but we have gone much further. This is an incredible victory for the Turkish opposition and an immense defeat for the government which raises the morale of anyone who believes in democracy”, she tells us from her London home where she moved in 2014.
What impact will the vote have on a national level?
«For Erdogan, losing Istanbul for the second time has both political consequences and symbolic value. Ekrem Imamoglu’s victory is important because he is the face and voice of change both in the country and in the party. His mantra has always been “the future will be better” and now many Turks repeat the slogan: “Everything will be fine”. This is important because for too long we have felt helpless and depressed. He gives us hope that the country can move again in the direction of democracy, justice, human and women’s rights, the latter being the first to be trampled upon by authoritarian regimes.”
Why has the electorate expressed themselves so differently ten months after the presidential elections?
«The economy certainly played a role but it was not the only fact. Voter turnout decreased and this suggests that many AKP voters were not as motivated. And let’s not forget that a million young people voted for the first time. I think they want a real democracy that prepares a better future. Inflation is at 67% and the devaluation of the Turkish lira has hit businesses of all sizes hard and has worsened the living standards of many citizens. The earthquake left terrible wounds, trauma and destruction. There is also a psychological factor. Many people felt tired of hearing the same inflammatory rhetoric from the government, over and over again. There was tiredness. People want change. A significant and democratic change.”
The president of the CHP, Ozgur Ozel, said that after the defeat in 2023 the party has renewed itself by giving more space to women and young people. Do you think this was the winning card?
«The CHP, in opposition, achieved the best result since 1977. Imagine, the best result in 50 years! This is important. Party president Ozel said this new result will open the doors to a new political climate in Turkey. Women played a very important role in the results of this election. This time more mayors are elected. It’s not enough, but it’s an important step. In Türkiye we have huge problems with violence against women and gender inequality. We need more women at every level of politics and public space.”
Do you think that in countries where an authoritarian drift is underway the trend can be reversed?
«After Poland, the success of the opposition in Türkiye will inspire people who believe in democracy. Authoritarianism is not destiny. It can be challenged, and while it’s not easy, it can be reversed. Across Europe and the world we are witnessing the rise of populist and nationalist movements, which unfortunately gain momentum in times of economic crisis and political uncertainty. This is why it is important for liberals, Democrats and progressives to understand the root causes of populism, heal inequalities and care for everyone. In Poland we have seen an important step forward but this is not the case in Hungary where Orbán maintains his position. The important thing is to continue to believe in democracy, human rights, climate awareness and action, women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, rule of law, freedom of speech, inclusion and equality ».
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April 1, 2024 (modified April 1, 2024 | 11:18 pm)
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