As the second round of Turkey’s presidential run-off election approaches its close at 5:00 pm, there have been increasing reports of AKP-MHP supporters gathering at polling centres as early as 3:00 pm, well in advance of the counting process.
Videos shared by election observers depict groups of supporters entering the polling centres and creating a tense atmosphere. Observers are urging citizens to promptly head to their designated polling stations.
Incidents unfolded during the voting process at Istanbul’s Kadıköy Mualla Selcanoğlu High School, where a group forcefully entered the school premises used as a polling station and targeted women.
“Starting from 15:00, AKP supporters have begun arriving at schools in preparation for the counting. We urge male friends in particular to go to the closest school before 16:00 to offer support,” stated one such call. “Friends, AKP supporters dressed as scouts are being brought to the schools in Kadıköy for the counting process. Kılıçdaroğlu voters should swiftly proceed to the nearest school, even if only to make their presence known!” added another.
