Turkish Election Overhaul That Could Help Erdogan Gains Momentum
- Opposition fears changes could lead to fraud, intimidation
- Alliance led by ruling AKP has strong majority in assembly
Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Photographer: Adem Altan/AFP via Getty Images
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Sweeping changes to Turkey’s electoral laws that could help President Recep Tayyip Erdogan tighten his grip on power are set to begin their passage through parliament, with the opposition warning that they would increase the risk of vote fraud.
The proposed overhaul comes just over 18 months before the scheduled date for one of the most pivotal votes in modern Turkey. When Turks go to the polls next November, or earlier if plans are advanced, they’ll pick a new parliament and formally concentrate executive power in the office of the president.