US institute: Weakness in Turkey's political environment, fears of 2023 and its beyond

A report issued by the Institute of Near East Studies revealed the escalation of fears in Turkey because of the weakness democratic political environment in the country, and indicated that everyone is concerned that the Turkish ruling regime may resort to more repressive ideas and methods in the coming years.

15 April, 2020 06:34

NEWS DESK

"It will not be easy for Erdogan to transfer the rule to his successor, who chooses him in front of the opposition in this way, amid the political difficulties he faces," said researcher at the Institute of Near East Studies, Nicholas Danaforth.

Turkey is trying to polish its image by establishing itself as a major humanitarian force in the midst of the outbreak of Corona pandemic by sending medical equipment to Italy and Spain and testing equipment for the Palestinians and even medicines for Armenia.

Regarding his view of Turkey at the present time, Danforth said, "Today, Turkey has become a country in which democracy does not exist. Turkey has become a weaker country than what its promoters portray, but it is stronger than the strongest opponents claim."

"The Turkish regime considers political opposition as a crime, as incidents of corruption and harassment weaken political and democratic life," he added.

For nearly two decades, Recep Tayyip Erdogan has managed to strengthen his grip on power despite many political restructuring operations, and with the presidential elections scheduled for 2023 approaching, many people within his camp are already maneuvering to influence adversely what he aspires to, while thinking The opposition is how to defeat him, among whom are potential rivals Salah al-Din Demirtaş, head of the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party, Istanbul mayor Akram ImamOglo, and Ahmed DavutOglo, former prime minister.

Analyst Danforth assesses the current dynamics of Turkish democracy, including differences within the ruling Justice and Development Party and possible alliances in the opposition, as well as factors such as the fragile Turkish economy, whose threat to stability is certain to increase due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The report says that Erdogan's victory in the upcoming presidential elections is likely to close the country’s path towards a positive transformation for decades or even generations.

T/S

ANHA