The spokespersons of the Green Left Party and the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) described the Turkish presidential election as a campaign marred by inequalities, repression, and an onslaught of misinformation in a press conference after preliminary results showed President Erdoğan winning.
İbrahim Akın, the Green Left Party spokesperson, emphasised the necessity to address polarisation within society and called for a change in the existing system, vowing to “enlarge democratic politics.”
Akın highlighted the influence of Erdoğan’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in utilising state resources during the election process. “Throughout the electoral period, we witnessed manipulations funded directly by the propaganda machinery of the Palace, coupled with orchestrated disinformation campaigns and doctored videos. These striking examples make it abundantly clear that the elections were far from fair,” he said.
“We have never wavered in our pursuit of changing the regime,” continued Akın, “and we have advocated for realistic promises to open the doors to democracy for the society that is left with a choice between authoritarianism and democracy.”
“The election data shows that our voters have staunchly stood by our party’s policies and goals, demonstrating their unwavering commitment. Despite all the pressure and dirty propaganda, our people have not taken a step back,” added Akın.
Expressing gratitude to the Kurdish population and all voters who remained dedicated to the principles of change and democracy, Akın acknowledged their steadfastness and praised their resilience. “We must genuinely understand the underlying reasons behind the election results and overcome the shortcomings through the most appropriate means. It is our responsibility towards our people and our struggle.”
Akın also stressed that if the ruling alliance persists in its strategy of enclosing and suppressing society, the multifaceted crises Turkey faces, including economic, social, and political aspects, will lead to a profound collapse.
“The results unequivocally demonstrate that one out of every two individuals in this country demands change. Hence, the foremost duty of Turkish politics, as we embark upon the second century of the Republic, is to change the existing system, which is clearly impeding society, exacerbating polarisation, and eroding the foundations of democracy. Together, we must draft a civil and democratic constitution,” Akın concluded.
