<p>Ahead of the second round of election in Turkey, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the presidential candidate of the Nation's Alliance, has accused President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of obstructing his election campaign.</p>

<p>The opposition candidate took to Twitter and called Erdogan a "coward" and added that he is "completely under blackout."</p>

<p>"Constant slander, lies, conspiracies, irregularities at the ballot boxes, efforts to ban observers, manipulated videos... And now, [telecommunication companies] are even blocking our ability to send a short message to announce our program to journalists," he alleged</p>

<p>Addressing Turkish&nbsp;President Erdogan, Kilicdaroglu said, "Should I not participate in the election? Is this what you want? Elections cannot be held in Turkey."</p>

<p>"This man is a coward, a coward who is causing the country to decline. We are reaching a point where elections cannot be held. What do you want from this country? Coward."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey Election 2023: Erdogan accepts runoff in elections</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier,&nbsp;Kilicdaroglu had alleged that the dissemination of a text message his campaign meant to be sent to prospective voters was obstructed.</p>

<p>Kilicdaroglu's accusations come ahead of the runoff vote between Erdogan sand Nation's Alliance leader&nbsp;on Sunday.</p>

<h2><strong>Erdogan Vs&nbsp;Kilicdaroglu: Who stands where?</strong></h2>

<p>In the first round of voting on May 14, Erdogan got 49.5 per cent&nbsp;support, falling just short of the majority needed to avoid a runoff.</p>

<p>Kilicdaroglu, the candidate of a six-party opposition alliance, received 44.9 per cent support. Nationalist candidate Sinan Ogan came third with 5.2% support and was eliminated. Ogan subsequently threw his weight behind Erdogan and supported his re-election bid.</p>

<p>Erdogan, therefore, leads in the first round by 2.5 million votes and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-elections-2023-erdogan-takes-an-early-lead-reports-suggest-country-headed-for-may-28-runoffs-592441">remains the favourite to win</a>.</p>

<p>However, his rival believes the margin could still be bridged, either by eliminated candidate&nbsp;Ogan's&nbsp;2.8 million supporters or by the eight million voters who did not turn out in the first round.</p>

<p>At present,&nbsp;Erdogan seems confident of his win. He is reported to be focusing his previous successes, and his election campaign has emphasised on&nbsp;continuity.</p>

<p>On Sunday, it will be the first time Turkish voters would go to vote&nbsp;for a second time to select their next president.</p>

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Ahead of the second round of election in Turkey, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the presidential candidate of the Nation's Alliance, has accused President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of obstructing his election campaign.

Ahead of the second round of election in Turkey, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the presidential candidate of the Nation's Alliance, has accused President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of obstructing his election campaign. The opposition candidate took to Twitter and called Erdogan a "coward" and added that he is "completely under blackout." "Constant slander, lies, conspiracies, irregularities at the ballot boxes, efforts to ban observers, manipulated videos... And now, [telecommunication companies] are even blocking our ability to send a short message to announce our program to journalists," he alleged Addressing Turkish President Erdogan, Kilicdaroglu said, "Should I not participate in the election? Is this what you want? Elections cannot be held in Turkey." "This man is a coward, a coward who is causing the country to decline. We are reaching a point where elections cannot be held. What do you want from this country? Coward." ALSO WATCH | Turkey Election 2023: Erdogan accepts runoff in elections × Earlier, Kilicdaroglu had alleged that the dissemination of a text message his campaign meant to be sent to prospective voters was obstructed. Kilicdaroglu's accusations come ahead of the runoff vote between Erdogan sand Nation's Alliance leader on Sunday. Erdogan Vs Kilicdaroglu: Who stands where? In the first round of voting on May 14, Erdogan got 49.5 per cent support, falling just short of the majority needed to avoid a runoff. Kilicdaroglu, the candidate of a six-party opposition alliance, received 44.9 per cent support. Nationalist candidate Sinan Ogan came third with 5.2% support and was eliminated. Ogan subsequently threw his weight behind Erdogan and supported his re-election bid. Erdogan, therefore, leads in the first round by 2.5 million votes and remains the favourite to win. However, his rival believes the margin could still be bridged, either by eliminated candidate Ogan's 2.8 million supporters or by the eight million voters who did not turn out in the first round. At present, Erdogan seems confident of his win. He is reported to be focusing his previous successes, and his election campaign has emphasised on continuity. On Sunday, it will be the first time Turkish voters would go to vote for a second time to select their next president. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkey elections: 'This man is a coward', rival blasts Erdogan ahead of Sunday's presidential run-off

Turkiye will go to polls to on sunday, a presidential election run-off between the incumbent president Tayyip Erdogan and his political rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu will decide the path the country's domestic and foreign policy will take. But one question on everyone's mind is will Erdogan make a comeback?

Turkey Runoff Elections 2023: Is Erdogan inching closer to win?

<p>Turkish economy is witnessing a downturn as the country's currency, the lira, plunged to a record low of over 20 against the US dollar on Friday (May 26).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lira touched 20.00 against the U.S. currency and continued to impend near that level. It closed at 19.8695 on Thursday (May 25) and has dropped 6.4% so far this year.</p>

<p>Since the first round of Turkey's presidential election, which took place on May 14, Turkey's sovereign dollar bonds and equities have descended, whereas the cost of certifying exposure to Turkish debt has risen.</p>

<p>Erdogan, on Thursday evening, in an interview said that the Gulf states had recently sent funding to Turkey, briefly helping facilitate the central bank and markets. He further added that he plans to meet and thank the leaders of the countries personally after Sunday's runoff.</p>

<h2><strong>Erdogan takes an early lead in polls</strong></h2>

<p>Turkey held one of the most important elections in the country's modern 100-year history on May 14. The pivotal, crucial election could have significant consequences for the country's future, it could extend the current President's two-decade grip on power or put the mostly Muslim nation on a more secular course. As per preliminary results, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan took an early lead.</p>

<p>Turkish state news agency Anadolu showed the incumbent president picking up more than 51 per cent of the vote, while his main challenger Kemal Kilicdaroglu trailed with around 43 per cent.</p>

<p>Anadolu's figures, as per AFP, were based on 60 per cent of the ballots. However, Kilicdaroglu, in a tweet, claimed that his party's own vote count showed him winning.</p>

<p>"We are leading," he wrote.</p>

<p>A count by the pro-opposition Anka news site showed that the two leaders were tied, falling just short of the 50-per cent threshold needed to avoid a May 28 runoff.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Anka and Anadolu show third-party candidate Sinan Ogan was picking up five per cent of the vote.</p>

<p>Early votes from heavily pro-government districts appeared to be giving Erdogan the lead, but as more ballots were counted, his lead appeared to be shrinking.</p>

<p>"We are seeing a positive picture, according to our data," opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) spokesman Faik Oztrak told the press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that they would not release any numbers until the number of opened ballot boxes reach a meaningful level.</p>

<p>"We will start to give the numbers when the number of opened ballot boxes reaches a meaningful level."<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Turkish economy is witnessing a downturn as the country's currency, the lira, plunged to a record low of over 20 against the US dollar on Friday (May 26). The lira touched 20.

Turkish economy is witnessing a downturn as the country's currency, the lira, plunged to a record low of over 20 against the US dollar on Friday (May 26). The lira touched 20.00 against the U.S. currency and continued to impend near that level. It closed at 19.8695 on Thursday (May 25) and has dropped 6.4% so far this year. Since the first round of Turkey's presidential election, which took place on May 14, Turkey's sovereign dollar bonds and equities have descended, whereas the cost of certifying exposure to Turkish debt has risen. Erdogan, on Thursday evening, in an interview said that the Gulf states had recently sent funding to Turkey, briefly helping facilitate the central bank and markets. He further added that he plans to meet and thank the leaders of the countries personally after Sunday's runoff. Erdogan takes an early lead in polls Turkey held one of the most important elections in the country's modern 100-year history on May 14. The pivotal, crucial election could have significant consequences for the country's future, it could extend the current President's two-decade grip on power or put the mostly Muslim nation on a more secular course. As per preliminary results, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan took an early lead. Turkish state news agency Anadolu showed the incumbent president picking up more than 51 per cent of the vote, while his main challenger Kemal Kilicdaroglu trailed with around 43 per cent. Anadolu's figures, as per AFP, were based on 60 per cent of the ballots. However, Kilicdaroglu, in a tweet, claimed that his party's own vote count showed him winning. "We are leading," he wrote. A count by the pro-opposition Anka news site showed that the two leaders were tied, falling just short of the 50-per cent threshold needed to avoid a May 28 runoff. Both Anka and Anadolu show third-party candidate Sinan Ogan was picking up five per cent of the vote. Early votes from heavily pro-government districts appeared to be giving Erdogan the lead, but as more ballots were counted, his lead appeared to be shrinking. "We are seeing a positive picture, according to our data," opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) spokesman Faik Oztrak told the press. He added that they would not release any numbers until the number of opened ballot boxes reach a meaningful level. "We will start to give the numbers when the number of opened ballot boxes reaches a meaningful level." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkish lira witnesses record low ahead of presidential election runoff

Just days before the May 28th presidential runoffs, the Turkish Lira hit a new low of 20 to the US dollar, declining 6.4 percent so far this year. In addition, sovereign bonds and stocks have both declined.

Turkish currency plunges ahead of Presidential elections run-off

Turkey will hold a runoff election on May 28 after both the incumbent president, Erdogan, and his opponent, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, fell short of the required 50 percent of the vote on May 14. Erdogan has served as president of Turkey for the past 20 years.

Turkey: Incumbent President Erdogan gets an edge over rival leader

<p>Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan got a major boost towards a successive presidential term after Sinan Ogan, the third-placed presidential election candidate, assured his support to the incumbent president.</p>

<p>Ogan announced his support for Erdogan in a press conference in Ankara on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The support for Erdogan from Ogan, who received 5.17 per cent of votes in the first round of the presidential polls on May 14, comes ahead of the scheduled runoff vote between the incumbent president and the opposition's Kemal Kilicdaroglu.</p>

<p>Erdogan received 49.52 per cent of votes in the first round, with a five-point lead over Kilicdaroglu.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is Ogan supporting Erdogan?</strong></h2>

<p>This is because the incumbent president has promised to take forward some of Ogan's key campaign promises. Ogan had put in the condition of his endorsement of either candidate on strong immigration policies and some Kurdish groups he has described as terrorists.</p>

<p>Asked why he did not support National Alliance's candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu, Ogan said that the National Alliance "failed to convince" his party of their key agendas related to immigration and counter-terrorism.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Did Erdogan rig Turkey elections</strong></p>

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<p>Ogan claimed that Turkey was at a "critical juncture," and laid out four priorities he said needed to be addressed urgently.</p>

<p>First is the issue of refugees and migrants in Turkey, he said, as per CNN.&nbsp;Second, the "urgent national security threat" following the recent earthquakes. Third, the economic problems "caused by domestic and foreign dynamics that have caused deep issues in the public." And fourth, the fight against terrorism in Turkey, which he said needed to be "addressed on all fronts, including financially."</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Sinan Ogan?</strong></h2>

<p>Sinan Ogan has been described by the Turkish media as a 'fringe, ultranationalist politician'. The Ancestral Alliance nominated Ogan as its presidential candidate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ogan's support for Erdogan has put him in the position of being the kingmaker.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-erdogan-expresses-confidence-amid-opposition-split-568638">Turkey: Erdogan expresses confidence amid opposition split</a></strong></p>

<p>The Ancestral Alliance has now announced that each political party within it will make a decision, on backing either Erdogan or Kilicdaroglu, on its own.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main party within the alliance, the Victory Party, is expected to make an announcement on Tuesday.</p>

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Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan got a major boost towards a successive presidential term after Sinan Ogan, the third-placed presidential election candidate, assured his support to the incumbent president.

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan got a major boost towards a successive presidential term after Sinan Ogan, the third-placed presidential election candidate, assured his support to the incumbent president. Ogan announced his support for Erdogan in a press conference in Ankara on Monday. The support for Erdogan from Ogan, who received 5.17 per cent of votes in the first round of the presidential polls on May 14, comes ahead of the scheduled runoff vote between the incumbent president and the opposition's Kemal Kilicdaroglu. Erdogan received 49.52 per cent of votes in the first round, with a five-point lead over Kilicdaroglu. Why is Ogan supporting Erdogan? This is because the incumbent president has promised to take forward some of Ogan's key campaign promises. Ogan had put in the condition of his endorsement of either candidate on strong immigration policies and some Kurdish groups he has described as terrorists. Asked why he did not support National Alliance's candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu, Ogan said that the National Alliance "failed to convince" his party of their key agendas related to immigration and counter-terrorism. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Did Erdogan rig Turkey elections × Ogan claimed that Turkey was at a "critical juncture," and laid out four priorities he said needed to be addressed urgently. First is the issue of refugees and migrants in Turkey, he said, as per CNN. Second, the "urgent national security threat" following the recent earthquakes. Third, the economic problems "caused by domestic and foreign dynamics that have caused deep issues in the public." And fourth, the fight against terrorism in Turkey, which he said needed to be "addressed on all fronts, including financially." Who is Sinan Ogan? Sinan Ogan has been described by the Turkish media as a 'fringe, ultranationalist politician'. The Ancestral Alliance nominated Ogan as its presidential candidate. Ogan's support for Erdogan has put him in the position of being the kingmaker. ALSO READ | Turkey: Erdogan expresses confidence amid opposition split The Ancestral Alliance has now announced that each political party within it will make a decision, on backing either Erdogan or Kilicdaroglu, on its own. The main party within the alliance, the Victory Party, is expected to make an announcement on Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkey election: Erdogan's chance of winning goes up as Sinan Ogan pledges support

Third place finisher in Turkey elections, Sinan Ogan has endorsed Erdogan in the Presidential race. Will his 2.8 million supporters make the same choice? Has Erdogan already won the elections? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Sinan Ogan backs Erdogan in presidential race

Turkiye is headed into round two of the high stake Presidential elections after the first round ended inconclusively. Incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan missed the required 50% by a whisker. His main rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu came in second with 44% of the votes. Many pre-poll surveys expected Kemal to dethrone Erdogan after 20 years. But, when that didn't happen reports started floating around of electoral malpractice.

Turkiye May 14 Presidential elections ended inconclusively

Opposition parties in Turkiye have alleged irregularities in the general elections which took place last Sunday. The accusations come as President Erdogan is set to compete with opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu in a Presidential runoff. Erdogan has emerged as the leading candidate in the elections that were held to elect both the President as well as the Parliament narrowly missing the 50% mark required to register victory. But, opposition parties claim that these elections were marred by thousands of discrepancies and ballot irregularities.

Turkiye general elections 2023: Parties claim thousands of discrepancies and ballot irregularities

There's a whole new dimension to the high stakes through elections that has now moved into the runoff round that is after neither Turkish President Erdogan nor the Opposition candidate Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, could secure the 50% threshold.

Turkey Elections: The final twist in the tale is yet to come - Who will Sinan Ogan support? | WION

With more than 96 percent of the ballot boxes counted, Erdogan led had 49.44 percent of the vote, and Kilicdaroglu had 44.86 percent, neither he nor his opponent had reached the required 50 percent of the vote to win the election.

Turkey Election 2023: Erdogan accepts runoff in elections

Turkey Election 2023: Erdogan accepts runoff, elections to take place on May 28 | World DNA

Turkey's all-powerful President Erdogan is in the fight of his life against an opposition that has united against him for Sunday's elections. His main rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu appeared before a throng of supporters on Friday, flanked by allies from across the political spectrum who have come together as never before.

Turkey Election 2023: Devastating earthquak, aftermath triggers anger against Erdogan

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a final election campaign rally in Istanbul on Saturday. Turkey will hold its general election on 14 May 2023 with a two-round system to elect its president, while parliamentary elections will be held simultaneously.

Turkey Election 2023: Erdogan trails behind opponent ahead of election

Turkey will head to the polls in a few hours. Will Erdogan return for another term or will these elections mark the end of his era? Molly Gambhir explains on Gravitas Plus.

Gravitas Plus: Turkey Elections: Is Erdogan's defeat certain?

Turkey Elections: Is Erdogan's defeat certain?

Turkey Election 2023: Erdogan and Kilicdaroglu supporters campaign at full speed

On Sunday, Turkish voters face a stark choice between two front-runners offering drastically different visions for the country in an election that has grave implications not just for the future of Turkish democracy, but some of the most pressing global issues today.

Elections in Turkey: The end of the Erdogan era?

Turkey election: Opposition dares to dream of Erdogan defeat

Turkey Election 2023: President Erdogan warns of reprisals if oppostion wins

On May 14, Turkiye will hold presidential elections. A crippling economy and deadly earthquakes- Will Erdogan’s 2-decade-old reign over Turkiye come to an end? Watch WION Wideangle

Turkiye Elections: Erdogan, Economy, Earthquakes | WION Wideangle

<p>In a shocking development that may make things tough for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in upcoming elections, third-party candidate Muharrem Ince on Thursday (May 11) withdrew his candidacy from the presidential polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 59-year-old announced his decision after being targeted by an online smear campaign that included doctored images of him meeting women and riding around in fancy cars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The secular nationalist picked up 30.6 per cent of the vote when he challenged President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the 2018 presidential polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, he quit the main opposition party and launched his own movement that started pulling votes away from secular leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kemal Kilicdaroglu is the joint candidate of the anti-Erdogan bloc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm withdrawing my candidacy," Ince told reporters ahead of Sunday's vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am doing this for my country."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Turkey Election 2023: Stiff challenge to Erdogan's reign</strong></p>

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<p>He had faced ferocious criticism from the opposition for entering the election campaign. He was largely seen as a spoiler candidate whose presence in the election ring could only help Erdogan secure a third decade of rule.</p>

<p>Ince countered that he offered voters a more vibrant alternative to the 74-year-old Kilicdaroglu -- a bookish former civil servant, who lost a string of national elections against Erdogan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Latest opinion polls say that Kilicdaroglu is leading Erdogan by a few percentage points. He is falling just short of breaking the 50-per-cent threshold needed for a first-round victory.</p>

<p>Ince's popularity has been ebbing away after touching nearly 15 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest surveys showed him picking up between two and four per cent of the vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a shocking development that may make things tough for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in upcoming elections, third-party candidate Muharrem Ince on Thursday (May 11) withdrew his candidacy from the presidential polls.

In a shocking development that may make things tough for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in upcoming elections, third-party candidate Muharrem Ince on Thursday (May 11) withdrew his candidacy from the presidential polls. The 59-year-old announced his decision after being targeted by an online smear campaign that included doctored images of him meeting women and riding around in fancy cars. The secular nationalist picked up 30.6 per cent of the vote when he challenged President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the 2018 presidential polls. Afterwards, he quit the main opposition party and launched his own movement that started pulling votes away from secular leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu. Kemal Kilicdaroglu is the joint candidate of the anti-Erdogan bloc. "I'm withdrawing my candidacy," Ince told reporters ahead of Sunday's vote. "I am doing this for my country." Watch | Turkey Election 2023: Stiff challenge to Erdogan's reign × He had faced ferocious criticism from the opposition for entering the election campaign. He was largely seen as a spoiler candidate whose presence in the election ring could only help Erdogan secure a third decade of rule. Ince countered that he offered voters a more vibrant alternative to the 74-year-old Kilicdaroglu -- a bookish former civil servant, who lost a string of national elections against Erdogan. Latest opinion polls say that Kilicdaroglu is leading Erdogan by a few percentage points. He is falling just short of breaking the 50-per-cent threshold needed for a first-round victory. Ince's popularity has been ebbing away after touching nearly 15 per cent. The latest surveys showed him picking up between two and four per cent of the vote. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Trouble for Erdogan? Third party candidate drops out of election race

Turkey is preparing for its general election, which might determine the political future of Erdogan, the country's de facto leader. As the election draws closer to the main event, Erdogan will face the greatest challenge of his 20-year reign because of a candidate who says his party has proof of Russian election meddling.

Turkey Elections 2023: Erdogan rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu claims evidence of Russian interference

Turkiye will go to presidential and parliamentary polls in four days. His government faces public anger after massive earthquakes hit Turkiye. Will the May 14 elections end Erdogan's 20-year hold on Turkiye?

Gravitas | Turkiye polls: Will Erdogan be ousted?

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday (May 8) accused his political opponents of causing disorder and siding with the terrorists. He made the accusations in a fiery speech just days before an election that's poised to be close.</p>

<p>The Turkish president seemed to suggest that his opponents were behind the confrontations that erupted a day earlier when people threw stones at a key opposition figure in the eastern city of Erzurum. It is a stronghold of president's AK Party (AKP). The voting is slated to take place on May 14. According to opinion polls, Erdogan faces biggest challenge of his career in upcoming elections.</p>

<p>"They (the opposition) are trying to defame our cities shamelessly by making a scene with their own provocations," Erdogan said, without making direct reference to the events in Erzurum. Erdogan was speaking during a rally in the western town of Edirne.</p>

<p>"They are looking for a cover for their prospective defeat in the elections by provoking and insulting people," he added.</p>

<p>Erdogan's words are being seen as an attempt to shore up his appeal among conservative and nationalist voters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Protesters threw stones at Ekrem Imamoglu, Mayor of Istanbul on Sunday. Imamoglu is a member of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). Imamoglu will be vice president if opposition's Kemal Kilicdaroglu wins presidential vote.</p>

<p>Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu appeared to take Erdogan's line and blamed the opposition for violence in Erzurum.</p>

<p>He claimed that Istanbul mayor's wife had provoked the crowds by making a 'V' sign at another rally last week. Soylu said that the gesture referred to Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) which is outlawed in Turkey.</p>

<p>"People of Erzurum have high sensitivity on nationalism. If you go to these cities and provoke them over their sensitivities, then God forbid," Soylu said in a live broadcast late on Sunday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday (May 8) accused his political opponents of causing disorder and siding with the terrorists. He made the accusations in a fiery speech just days before an election that's poised to be close.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday (May 8) accused his political opponents of causing disorder and siding with the terrorists. He made the accusations in a fiery speech just days before an election that's poised to be close. The Turkish president seemed to suggest that his opponents were behind the confrontations that erupted a day earlier when people threw stones at a key opposition figure in the eastern city of Erzurum. It is a stronghold of president's AK Party (AKP). The voting is slated to take place on May 14. According to opinion polls, Erdogan faces biggest challenge of his career in upcoming elections. "They (the opposition) are trying to defame our cities shamelessly by making a scene with their own provocations," Erdogan said, without making direct reference to the events in Erzurum. Erdogan was speaking during a rally in the western town of Edirne. "They are looking for a cover for their prospective defeat in the elections by provoking and insulting people," he added. Erdogan's words are being seen as an attempt to shore up his appeal among conservative and nationalist voters. Protesters threw stones at Ekrem Imamoglu, Mayor of Istanbul on Sunday. Imamoglu is a member of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). Imamoglu will be vice president if opposition's Kemal Kilicdaroglu wins presidential vote. Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu appeared to take Erdogan's line and blamed the opposition for violence in Erzurum. He claimed that Istanbul mayor's wife had provoked the crowds by making a 'V' sign at another rally last week. Soylu said that the gesture referred to Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) which is outlawed in Turkey. "People of Erzurum have high sensitivity on nationalism. If you go to these cities and provoke them over their sensitivities, then God forbid," Soylu said in a live broadcast late on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Erdogan accuses opposition of violence, provocations days before election

<p><strong>Turkey elections 2023:</strong> More than five million first-time voters are set to participate in the upcoming elections on May 14th in Turkey, with their turnout expected to have a significant impact on the outcome of the tight race between incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the Republican People's Party, or CHP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ozer Sencar, the director of the Turkish polling organisation MetroPoll, reports that 78 per cent of voters in the 18-24 age group have expressed an intention to vote, with half of young voters preferring Kilicdaroglu. Erdogan, on the other hand, is expected to receive about 30 per cent of the vote in this age group. According to experts, young people in Turkey are expressing a growing sense that meritocracy is no longer sufficient to rise up the ranks in public institutions.</p>

<h2><strong>Top rivals try to woo young voters</strong></h2>

<p>Erdogan and Kilicdaroglu have both attempted to appeal to the youth vote in recent years. Teknofest, the country's largest technology event, has been organised by the government and Selcuk Bayraktar, the man behind Turkey's drone programme and Erdogan's son-in-law, with the aim of drawing in young talent from across the country. The event has become an opportunity for the government to demonstrate that it can still generate ideas and events meant to inspire young people in the fields of cutting-edge technology.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Turkey Elections 2023: How Turkish diaspora will become kingmaker</strong></p>

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<p>According to Sencar, Erdogan is trying to appeal to the nationalistic feelings of the new generation with his campaign focused on the defence industry. Technological developments such as the defence industry, Sencar says, are also intended to increase young voters' positive expectations for the future with Erdogan. Meanwhile, Kilicdaroglu has sought to appeal to young people's sense of freedom.</p>

<p>On the campaign trail, the opposition presidential candidate makes heart emojis with his hands and tells young people they can criticise him as much as they want without fear.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Turkey's elections are important for the world?</strong></h2>

<p>Home to 85 million people, Turkey wields significant power on the world stage. It is a NATO member having strong defence ties with Russia, and for which it has been at loggerheads with the American administrations. Turkey is also sitting over Sweden’s application to join NATO over the latter’s alleged support to the Kurdish organisations that Ankara views as terrorists.</p>

<p>Turkey, under Erdogan, has turned hostile towards India and has backed Pakistan’s claims on Kashmir unacceptable to New Delhi.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-isis-chief-killed-in-syria-says-turkey-president-587671">Suspected ISIS chief, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, killed in Syria: Turkey president</a></strong></p>

<p>So, the world, including policymakers in Delhi, would like to see a pragmatic administration take over the reins in Ankara. However, it remains to be seen what card the majority of the Turkish voters have up their sleeves.<br />
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<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Turkey elections 2023: More than five million first-time voters are set to participate in the upcoming elections on May 14th in Turkey, with their turnout expected to have a significant impact on the outcome of the tight race between incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the Republican People's Party, or CHP.

Turkey elections 2023: More than five million first-time voters are set to participate in the upcoming elections on May 14th in Turkey, with their turnout expected to have a significant impact on the outcome of the tight race between incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the Republican People's Party, or CHP. Ozer Sencar, the director of the Turkish polling organisation MetroPoll, reports that 78 per cent of voters in the 18-24 age group have expressed an intention to vote, with half of young voters preferring Kilicdaroglu. Erdogan, on the other hand, is expected to receive about 30 per cent of the vote in this age group. According to experts, young people in Turkey are expressing a growing sense that meritocracy is no longer sufficient to rise up the ranks in public institutions. Top rivals try to woo young voters Erdogan and Kilicdaroglu have both attempted to appeal to the youth vote in recent years. Teknofest, the country's largest technology event, has been organised by the government and Selcuk Bayraktar, the man behind Turkey's drone programme and Erdogan's son-in-law, with the aim of drawing in young talent from across the country. The event has become an opportunity for the government to demonstrate that it can still generate ideas and events meant to inspire young people in the fields of cutting-edge technology. Watch: Turkey Elections 2023: How Turkish diaspora will become kingmaker × According to Sencar, Erdogan is trying to appeal to the nationalistic feelings of the new generation with his campaign focused on the defence industry. Technological developments such as the defence industry, Sencar says, are also intended to increase young voters' positive expectations for the future with Erdogan. Meanwhile, Kilicdaroglu has sought to appeal to young people's sense of freedom. On the campaign trail, the opposition presidential candidate makes heart emojis with his hands and tells young people they can criticise him as much as they want without fear. Why Turkey's elections are important for the world? Home to 85 million people, Turkey wields significant power on the world stage. It is a NATO member having strong defence ties with Russia, and for which it has been at loggerheads with the American administrations. Turkey is also sitting over Sweden’s application to join NATO over the latter’s alleged support to the Kurdish organisations that Ankara views as terrorists. Turkey, under Erdogan, has turned hostile towards India and has backed Pakistan’s claims on Kashmir unacceptable to New Delhi. Also Read | Suspected ISIS chief, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, killed in Syria: Turkey president So, the world, including policymakers in Delhi, would like to see a pragmatic administration take over the reins in Ankara. However, it remains to be seen what card the majority of the Turkish voters have up their sleeves. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey elections 2023: More than five million new voters to decide Erdogan's fate next week

<p>Opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has spent his whole career in Tayyip Erdogan's shadow, thinks the time is now to lead Turkey in a new direction and undo much of the legacy of the man who has controlled politics for two decades.</p>

<p>The former civil servant was chosen by a coalition of six opposition parties to challenge Erdogan in the elections on May 14, which are seen to be among the most important in the nation's recent history.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-kishida-heads-to-seoul-for-landmark-summit-with-yoon-589868">Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon</a><br />
<br />
After an inclusive campaign promising remedies to a cost-of-living issue that has eroded the president's popularity in recent years, opinion surveys often show Kilicdaroglu, 74, keeping an edge and perhaps winning in a second round vote.</p>

<p>He has promised a return to traditional economic policies, the parliamentary form of government, independence for the judiciary, which detractors claim Erdogan has abused to repress opposition, and improved ties with the West.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-at-least-nine-shot-at-mall-in-texas-shooter-killed-by-police-589857">At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police</a><br />
<br />
Even while the opposition's turnaround plan is anticipated to cause financial market instability and maybe the latest in a string of currency crises, it intends to reduce inflation, which reached 85% last year.</p>

<p>"I know people are struggling to get by. I know the cost of living and the hopelessness of young people," Kilicdaroglu told a rally last week. "The time has come for change. A new spirit and understanding is necessary."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan?</strong></p>

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<p>Detractors claim that Kilicdaroglu, who is despised by Erdogan amid his repeated electoral setbacks as the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), does not have the ability to mobilise crowds and does not provide a clear vision for a time after Erdogan.</p>

<p>He wants to capitalise on the opposition's victory in municipal elections in 2019, when the CHP beat Erdogan's AK Party in Istanbul and other major cities with the help of supporters of other opposition parties.</p>

<p>Many people are unsure if Kilicdaroglu can defeat Erdogan, the president with the longest tenure in the country, whose charismatic campaigning has helped him win more than a dozen elections.</p>

<p>Analysts claim that Erdogan is more vulnerable to loss than ever, despite his heavy-handed control of the press, judiciary, and government spending on social aid before to the election.</p>

<p>The inflationary crisis that decimated household budgets was sparked by Erdogan's efforts to lower interest rates, the opposition has emphasised. According to the government, as part of a strategy promoting lira holdings, the policy boosted exports and investment.</p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has spent his whole career in Tayyip Erdogan's shadow, thinks the time is now to lead Turkey in a new direction and undo much of the legacy of the man who has controlled politics for two decades.

Opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has spent his whole career in Tayyip Erdogan's shadow, thinks the time is now to lead Turkey in a new direction and undo much of the legacy of the man who has controlled politics for two decades. The former civil servant was chosen by a coalition of six opposition parties to challenge Erdogan in the elections on May 14, which are seen to be among the most important in the nation's recent history. Also Read | Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon After an inclusive campaign promising remedies to a cost-of-living issue that has eroded the president's popularity in recent years, opinion surveys often show Kilicdaroglu, 74, keeping an edge and perhaps winning in a second round vote. He has promised a return to traditional economic policies, the parliamentary form of government, independence for the judiciary, which detractors claim Erdogan has abused to repress opposition, and improved ties with the West. Also Read | At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police Even while the opposition's turnaround plan is anticipated to cause financial market instability and maybe the latest in a string of currency crises, it intends to reduce inflation, which reached 85% last year. "I know people are struggling to get by. I know the cost of living and the hopelessness of young people," Kilicdaroglu told a rally last week. "The time has come for change. A new spirit and understanding is necessary." Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan? × Detractors claim that Kilicdaroglu, who is despised by Erdogan amid his repeated electoral setbacks as the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), does not have the ability to mobilise crowds and does not provide a clear vision for a time after Erdogan. He wants to capitalise on the opposition's victory in municipal elections in 2019, when the CHP beat Erdogan's AK Party in Istanbul and other major cities with the help of supporters of other opposition parties. Many people are unsure if Kilicdaroglu can defeat Erdogan, the president with the longest tenure in the country, whose charismatic campaigning has helped him win more than a dozen elections. Analysts claim that Erdogan is more vulnerable to loss than ever, despite his heavy-handed control of the press, judiciary, and government spending on social aid before to the election. The inflationary crisis that decimated household budgets was sparked by Erdogan's efforts to lower interest rates, the opposition has emphasised. According to the government, as part of a strategy promoting lira holdings, the policy boosted exports and investment. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kilicdaroglu leaves Erdogan's shadow in Turkey's election campaign

Turkey will hold the most consequential election in recent history on 14 May. Voters will decide whether to keep the current government headed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has ruled for more than two decades or opt instead for a change of leadership in Ankara. Here is all you need to know about the upcoming elections.

Turkey Elections 2023: All you need to know

Turkey will hold the most consequential election in recent history on 14 May. Voters will decide whether to keep the current government headed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has ruled for more than two decades or opt instead for a change of leadership in Ankara. WION decodes upcoming Turkey elections in this report.

Turkey Elections 2023: How Turkish diaspora will become kingmaker

According to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the suspected commander of the Islamic State organisation was killed in Syria in an operation carried out by Turkey's MIT intelligence agency. Watch the video to know more.

Suspected ISIS Chief killed in northern Syria, claims Turkey | WION Fineprint

ISIS Chief Qurashi killed in Syria, Turkey's Erdogan makes big announcement

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