Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Wednesday (May 17), announced a two-month extension of the United Nations-backed deal allowing the war-torn to ship grains across the Black Sea to global markets. This comes as the last ship left a Ukrainian port under the deal which was due to expire on Thursday.&nbsp;

“With the efforts of our country, the support of our Russian friends, the contribution of our Ukrainian friends, it was decided to prolong the Black Sea grain deal for two more months,” said the Turkish president, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp; 
 
In a televised speech, Erdogan also thanked Russian and Ukrainian leaders as well as the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for their help.&nbsp;Russia agreed not to block ships from leaving two Ukrainian harbours, Erdogan said while expressing&nbsp;hope that the deal would be "beneficial for all the parties".

The decision also comes as officials from Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the UN which make up a Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) gathered in Istanbul, last week, to discuss the extension of the Black Sea pact. 
 
"These agreements matter for global food security -&nbsp;Ukrainian and Russian products feed the world," said&nbsp;Guterres as he welcomed&nbsp;the move, and stressed&nbsp;the need&nbsp;for a more comprehensive, longer-term agreement.

The JCC officials near Turkey typically inspect and authorise ships before it travels to a Ukrainian Black Sea port via a maritime humanitarian corridor to collect their cargo and return to Turkish waters for a final inspection, as per Reuters. However, no vessels had been authorised by the JCC since May 4.&nbsp; 
 
Ukraine is&nbsp;'grateful' to UN, Turkey 
 
After the extension was confirmed,&nbsp;Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov took to Twitter and thanked&nbsp;United Nations and Turkey for their efforts. "The Black Sea Grain Initiative has been unblocked, (and) continues to be valid" until July 18, said&nbsp; Kubrakov, adding that&nbsp;Kyiv was "grateful to our partners" for their efforts in "strengthening food security."

Russia's overall assessment remains unchanged

The extension of the deal was later confirmed by&nbsp;Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova who said that it would help&nbsp;countries in need, adding that Moscow's&nbsp;overall assessment of the situation regarding the deal had not changed. This comes as Russia had threatened to pull out of the deal unless&nbsp;a list of conditions were met. 
 
"Our fundamental assessments of the Istanbul agreements concluded on July 22, 2022, have not changed, and the distortions in their implementation must be corrected as quickly as possible," said&nbsp;Zakharova&nbsp;in a video briefing to the press.&nbsp; 
 
Notably, the UN back in July had agreed to help Moscow with its own agricultural shipments for three years. “There are still a lot of open questions regarding our part of the deal. Now a decision will have to be taken,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, on Tuesday.&nbsp;

This comes as Moscow said restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have amounted to a barrier to shipments. However, the United States has since rejected these complaints and said that Russia is “exporting grain and fertiliser at the same levels, if not higher, than before the full scale invasion.”&nbsp; 
 
Black Sea grain export deal

Among thousands of sanctions imposed by the West against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, exports of food and fertiliser have not reportedly been a part of any of such restrictions. According to the data from the UN, the DSM Capella, the last vessel now operating under the deal, had left the Ukrainian port of Chornomorsk carrying 30,000 tonnes of corn and was on its way to Turkey.&nbsp;

The UN-Turkey brokered deal allowing the safe passage of ships through the Black Sea began as an initial 120 days in July last year to help tackle a global food crisis which has been exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as the latter is one of the world’s leading grain exporters. In November, last year, the pact was extended after Moscow agreed to a 120-day extension and earlier this year agreed to a 60-day extension, which was to end on May 18.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Wednesday (May 17), announced a two-month extension of the United Nations-backed deal allowing the war-torn to ship grains across the Black Sea to global markets.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Wednesday (May 17), announced a two-month extension of the United Nations-backed deal allowing the war-torn to ship grains across the Black Sea to global markets. This comes as the last ship left a Ukrainian port under the deal which was due to expire on Thursday. “With the efforts of our country, the support of our Russian friends, the contribution of our Ukrainian friends, it was decided to prolong the Black Sea grain deal for two more months,” said the Turkish president, as quoted by news agency AFP. In a televised speech, Erdogan also thanked Russian and Ukrainian leaders as well as the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for their help. Russia agreed not to block ships from leaving two Ukrainian harbours, Erdogan said while expressing hope that the deal would be "beneficial for all the parties". The decision also comes as officials from Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the UN which make up a Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) gathered in Istanbul, last week, to discuss the extension of the Black Sea pact. "These agreements matter for global food security - Ukrainian and Russian products feed the world," said Guterres as he welcomed the move, and stressed the need for a more comprehensive, longer-term agreement. The JCC officials near Turkey typically inspect and authorise ships before it travels to a Ukrainian Black Sea port via a maritime humanitarian corridor to collect their cargo and return to Turkish waters for a final inspection, as per Reuters. However, no vessels had been authorised by the JCC since May 4. Ukraine is 'grateful' to UN, Turkey After the extension was confirmed, Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov took to Twitter and thanked United Nations and Turkey for their efforts. "The Black Sea Grain Initiative has been unblocked, (and) continues to be valid" until July 18, said Kubrakov, adding that Kyiv was "grateful to our partners" for their efforts in "strengthening food security." Russia's overall assessment remains unchanged The extension of the deal was later confirmed by Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova who said that it would help countries in need, adding that Moscow's overall assessment of the situation regarding the deal had not changed. This comes as Russia had threatened to pull out of the deal unless a list of conditions were met. "Our fundamental assessments of the Istanbul agreements concluded on July 22, 2022, have not changed, and the distortions in their implementation must be corrected as quickly as possible," said Zakharova in a video briefing to the press. Notably, the UN back in July had agreed to help Moscow with its own agricultural shipments for three years. “There are still a lot of open questions regarding our part of the deal. Now a decision will have to be taken,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, on Tuesday. This comes as Moscow said restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have amounted to a barrier to shipments. However, the United States has since rejected these complaints and said that Russia is “exporting grain and fertiliser at the same levels, if not higher, than before the full scale invasion.” Black Sea grain export deal Among thousands of sanctions imposed by the West against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, exports of food and fertiliser have not reportedly been a part of any of such restrictions. According to the data from the UN, the DSM Capella, the last vessel now operating under the deal, had left the Ukrainian port of Chornomorsk carrying 30,000 tonnes of corn and was on its way to Turkey. The UN-Turkey brokered deal allowing the safe passage of ships through the Black Sea began as an initial 120 days in July last year to help tackle a global food crisis which has been exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as the latter is one of the world’s leading grain exporters. In November, last year, the pact was extended after Moscow agreed to a 120-day extension and earlier this year agreed to a 60-day extension, which was to end on May 18. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Ukraine grain deal extended for two more months, Russia slams ‘distortions’ in implementation

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

Turkey’s presidential election will be decided in a runoff, election officials said on Monday (May 15). This comes a&nbsp;day after incumbent President&nbsp;Recep Tayyip Erdogan released a statement saying he was prepared for a runoff election, following one of Turkey's most important elections in modern history. 
 
Candidates are ready

“We don’t know yet whether the election will be over in the first round, but if people take us to a second round, we will respect that too," Erdogan told his supporters, adding that his ruling conservative alliance had won a “majority" in parliament.

While Erdogan took a conservative position, his opponent Kemal Kilicdaroglu rattled the cage once again and said the president had not received the result he was expecting.&nbsp;

"Despite all his smear campaigns and insults, Erdogan did not get the result he expected. Nobody should get excited about a fait accompli," said Kilicdaroglu.&nbsp;

"Elections are not won on the balcony (referring to Erdogan's speech). Election data still continues to come. If our nation decides on a runoff, with our pleasure. We will definitely win this election in the second round. Everyone will see it."

Sinan Ogan, the third presidential candidate who has allied with Erdogan, took to Twitter late on Sunday to cast aspersions over the overseas vote-counting process.

"We have heard that some manipulations were carried out in the overseas vote counting processes. Vote counting is not done in a healthy environment. I warn the YSK. Take the necessary measures immediately and ensure that the vote counting processes are carried out quickly," Ogan tweeted.&nbsp;

"In addition, we will not allow a fait accompli with a manipulation of foreign votes. Do not stress the environment. This is up to the second round."

Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavas, who is running for the vice-president post as a candidate for the&nbsp;main opposition Nation Alliance bloc, stated that Anadolu’s results were unreliable. He said the opposition data showed&nbsp;Kilicdaroglu as being ahead of Erdogan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-turkey-elections-is-erdogans-defeat-certain-592389">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Turkey Elections: Is Erdogan's defeat certain?</a>

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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.&nbsp;

<h2>May 28 runoff election</h2>

Ankara is&nbsp;headed for a May 28 runoff election after neither Erdogan nor Kilicdaroglu had managed to clear&nbsp;the 50 per cent&nbsp;threshold required to avoid a second round.&nbsp;Turkey’s High Election Board announced the unofficial results on Monday afternoon local time and hours later the official announcement was made by its head&nbsp;Ahmet Yener saying that the&nbsp;campaigning for the runoff has opened.

With almost 97 per cent of ballot boxes counted, Erdogan led with 49.39 per cent&nbsp;of votes and Kilicdaroglu had 44.92 per cent, according to a Reuters report which quoted state-owned news agency Anadolu as saying. Meanwhile, Turkey's High Election Board gave Erdogan 49.49 per cent with 91.93 per cent&nbsp;of ballot boxes counted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/turkey-to-vote-in-crucial-election-which-could-unseat-erdogan-after-20-years-592169">ALSO READ |&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/turkey-to-vote-in-crucial-election-which-could-unseat-erdogan-after-20-years-592169">Turkey to vote in crucial election today. Will it unseat Erdogan after 20 years?</a>

This year's&nbsp;election largely centred&nbsp;around the economy, civil rights and the devastating February earthquake that left more than 50,000 dead. Thus, Erdogan not receiving outright victory is being seen as a verdict against his highly authoritarian tendencies.&nbsp;Under his rule, Turkey has emerged as one of the most rigid and financially frail countries in the region.&nbsp;

69-year-old Erdogan&nbsp;has been at the centre of power in Turkey as either prime minister or president since 2003. In the run-up to the election, opinion surveys had indicated the increasingly authoritarian leader narrowly trailed his challenger. 
 
Biden looks forward to working with whoever wins election 
 
The White House, on Monday, said that United States President&nbsp;Joe Biden is "looking forward to working with whoever"&nbsp;wins Turkey's&nbsp;knife-edge election as the NATO ally holds peaceful elections.

"We congratulate the Turkish people for expressing their desires at the ballot box in a peaceful way," said&nbsp;National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkey’s presidential election will be decided in a runoff, election officials said on Monday (May 15). This comes a day after incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan released a statement saying he was prepared for a runoff election, following one of Turkey's most important elections in modern history.

Turkey’s presidential election will be decided in a runoff, election officials said on Monday (May 15). This comes a day after incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan released a statement saying he was prepared for a runoff election, following one of Turkey's most important elections in modern history. Candidates are ready “We don’t know yet whether the election will be over in the first round, but if people take us to a second round, we will respect that too," Erdogan told his supporters, adding that his ruling conservative alliance had won a “majority" in parliament. While Erdogan took a conservative position, his opponent Kemal Kilicdaroglu rattled the cage once again and said the president had not received the result he was expecting. "Despite all his smear campaigns and insults, Erdogan did not get the result he expected. Nobody should get excited about a fait accompli," said Kilicdaroglu. "Elections are not won on the balcony (referring to Erdogan's speech). Election data still continues to come. If our nation decides on a runoff, with our pleasure. We will definitely win this election in the second round. Everyone will see it." Sinan Ogan, the third presidential candidate who has allied with Erdogan, took to Twitter late on Sunday to cast aspersions over the overseas vote-counting process. "We have heard that some manipulations were carried out in the overseas vote counting processes. Vote counting is not done in a healthy environment. I warn the YSK. Take the necessary measures immediately and ensure that the vote counting processes are carried out quickly," Ogan tweeted. "In addition, we will not allow a fait accompli with a manipulation of foreign votes. Do not stress the environment. This is up to the second round." Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavas, who is running for the vice-president post as a candidate for the main opposition Nation Alliance bloc, stated that Anadolu’s results were unreliable. He said the opposition data showed Kilicdaroglu as being ahead of Erdogan. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: Turkey Elections: Is Erdogan's defeat certain? × 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. May 28 runoff election Ankara is headed for a May 28 runoff election after neither Erdogan nor Kilicdaroglu had managed to clear the 50 per cent threshold required to avoid a second round. Turkey’s High Election Board announced the unofficial results on Monday afternoon local time and hours later the official announcement was made by its head Ahmet Yener saying that the campaigning for the runoff has opened. With almost 97 per cent of ballot boxes counted, Erdogan led with 49.39 per cent of votes and Kilicdaroglu had 44.92 per cent, according to a Reuters report which quoted state-owned news agency Anadolu as saying. Meanwhile, Turkey's High Election Board gave Erdogan 49.49 per cent with 91.93 per cent of ballot boxes counted. ALSO READ | Turkey to vote in crucial election today. Will it unseat Erdogan after 20 years? This year's election largely centred around the economy, civil rights and the devastating February earthquake that left more than 50,000 dead. Thus, Erdogan not receiving outright victory is being seen as a verdict against his highly authoritarian tendencies. Under his rule, Turkey has emerged as one of the most rigid and financially frail countries in the region. 69-year-old Erdogan has been at the centre of power in Turkey as either prime minister or president since 2003. In the run-up to the election, opinion surveys had indicated the increasingly authoritarian leader narrowly trailed his challenger. Biden looks forward to working with whoever wins election The White House, on Monday, said that United States President Joe Biden is "looking forward to working with whoever" wins Turkey's knife-edge election as the NATO ally holds peaceful elections. "We congratulate the Turkish people for expressing their desires at the ballot box in a peaceful way," said National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, as quoted by AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey election goes into runoff; President Erdogan, rival Kilicdaroglu say they're ready

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has secured 49.40% of the votes in the presidential election, while his main challenger, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, has obtained 44.96%, with 99% of ballots cast in Turkey processed. Erdogan claimed a "clear lead" over his secular rival as votes were still being counted but said he was ready for a run-off election if needed.

Turkey Election 2023: Incumbent President Erdogan accepts run-off

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

Erdogan heading for run-off in Turkey's knife-edge elections

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: Preliminary numbers show President Erdogan in the lead

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 Election 2023: Erdogan and Kilicdaroglu supporters campaign at full speed

Turkish citizens will vote on Sunday (May 14) in a crucial election that, according to several experts, could unseat President Recep Tayyip Erdogan after 20 years in power and halt his government's increasingly authoritarian path.

Turkish citizens will vote on Sunday (May 14) in a crucial election that, according to several experts, could unseat President Recep Tayyip Erdogan after 20 years in power and halt his government's increasingly authoritarian path. According to opinion polls, President Erdogan's challenger, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who heads an alliance of six opposition parties, has a slight lead, but if either of the leaders fails to get over 50% of the vote, there will be a runoff election on May 28, the news agency Reuters reported. Polls will open at 8 am (0500 GMT) and close at 5 pm (1400 GMT). And as per Turkish law, the reporting of any results is banned until 9 pm. Eligible voters will also elect a new parliament, which is also a tight race between the People's Alliance comprising Erdogan's conservative AK Party (AKP) and the nationalist MHP and others, and Kilicdaroglu's Nation Alliance of six opposition parties, including his secularist Republican People's Party (CHP). ALSO READ | Another Twitter Files?: Netizens quip at timing of Elon Musk blocking content in Turkey Erdogan's campaign over the past month has focused on the government's achievements in the defence industry and infrastructure projects and his assertion that the opposition would roll back such developments. On the other hand, Kilicdaroglu, a former civil servant, promises that if he wins he would return to orthodox economic policies, away from Erdogan's heavy management. Kilicdaroglu also said he would seek to return Turkey to the parliamentary system of governance, from Erdogan's executive presidential system passed in a referendum in 2017. The election in Turkey comes three months after the southeast region of the country was hit by a massive earthquake that killed over 50,000 people. Citizens affected by the disaster expressed anger over the slow initial government response, but there is little evidence that this issue will affect the election. A day before poll, Erdogan accuses opposition of working with Biden On Saturday, President Erdogan held his last election rallies in Istanbul and accused the opposition of working with United States President Joe Biden to topple him. "Biden gave the order to topple Erdogan, I know this. All my people know this. If that is the case, then the ballots tomorrow will give a response to Biden too," Reuters quoted Erdogan as saying. Later, a spokesperson from the US State Department said that Turkey was a long-standing American ally and that Washington would be following the election closely. But the spokesperson said the US does not take sides in elections. "Our only interest is in the democratic process, which should be both free and fair. We trust that Turkish authorities will carry out the election in keeping with its long, proud democratic tradition and its laws," the spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies) 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 to vote in crucial election today. Will it unseat Erdogan after 20 years?

Turkey Election 2023: Turkey set for a three-way contest in Presidential polls

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

Kemal Kilicdaroglu is the leader of the Republican People's Party and has emerged as the main rival of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the landmark elections. Kilicdaroglu has been the leader of the Main Opposition in the country since 2010.&nbsp;

According to the opinion surveys, Kilicdaroglu has a slight advantage and is very close to breaking the 50-per cent threshold, which is essential to avoid a runoff on May 28.&nbsp;

A third-party candidate, Muharrem Ince, withdrew from the presidential election this week, which came as a boost for the&nbsp;opposition as he was a threat to Kilicdaroglu's efforts to hand the Turkish leader his first national electoral defeat.&nbsp;

Ince's decision came after he was targeted by an online smear campaign, which allegedly contained doctored images of him meeting women and riding around in fancy cars. The shocking move has increased the chances of an opposition first-round victory.

<h2>Who is Kemal Kilicdaroglu?&nbsp;</h2>

The 74-year-old Kilicdaroglu is a Turkish economist and a retired civil servant.&nbsp;

Kilicdaroglu was named the six-party opposition alliance's presidential candidate in March. For a very long time, he has been stuck in Erdogan's shadow and failed to come out since taking the centre-left CHP's reins in 2010.&nbsp;

A former civil servant, Kilicdaroglu entered parliament in 2002 with the CHP, which was established by modern Turkey's founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and has struggled to reach beyond its secularist grassroots towards conservatives.

He has sought to grab the attention of voters who are apparently disillusioned by Erdogan's rhetoric and perceived economic mismanagement, promising economic prosperity.&nbsp;

In 2009, he lost to Erdogan's ally in his bid to become mayor of Istanbul. He then lost every national election to the president's right-wing AKP. But this time, he is vying to become head of&nbsp;one of NATO's most strategic states.&nbsp;

<h2>Kilicdaroglu accuses Russia&nbsp;</h2>

Kilicdaroglu even accused Russia of spreading "deep fakes" ahead of this weekend's crucial general election. He said on Twitter: "Dear Russian friends. You are behind the montages, conspiracies, deep fakes and tapes that were exposed in this country yesterday," he said without providing details.

"If you want our friendship after May 15, get your hands off the Turkish state. We are still in favour of cooperation and friendship," he added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kremlin denied the allegations that it is meddling in the presidential election campaign. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "We strongly reject such statements. We officially declare: there can be no talk of any interference. If someone provided Mr Kilicdaroglu with such information, they are liars."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Kemal Kilicdaroglu is the leader of the Republican People's Party and has emerged as the main rival of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the landmark elections.

Kemal Kilicdaroglu is the leader of the Republican People's Party and has emerged as the main rival of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the landmark elections. Kilicdaroglu has been the leader of the Main Opposition in the country since 2010. According to the opinion surveys, Kilicdaroglu has a slight advantage and is very close to breaking the 50-per cent threshold, which is essential to avoid a runoff on May 28. A third-party candidate, Muharrem Ince, withdrew from the presidential election this week, which came as a boost for the opposition as he was a threat to Kilicdaroglu's efforts to hand the Turkish leader his first national electoral defeat. Ince's decision came after he was targeted by an online smear campaign, which allegedly contained doctored images of him meeting women and riding around in fancy cars. The shocking move has increased the chances of an opposition first-round victory. Who is Kemal Kilicdaroglu? The 74-year-old Kilicdaroglu is a Turkish economist and a retired civil servant. Kilicdaroglu was named the six-party opposition alliance's presidential candidate in March. For a very long time, he has been stuck in Erdogan's shadow and failed to come out since taking the centre-left CHP's reins in 2010. A former civil servant, Kilicdaroglu entered parliament in 2002 with the CHP, which was established by modern Turkey's founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and has struggled to reach beyond its secularist grassroots towards conservatives. He has sought to grab the attention of voters who are apparently disillusioned by Erdogan's rhetoric and perceived economic mismanagement, promising economic prosperity. In 2009, he lost to Erdogan's ally in his bid to become mayor of Istanbul. He then lost every national election to the president's right-wing AKP. But this time, he is vying to become head of one of NATO's most strategic states. Kilicdaroglu accuses Russia Kilicdaroglu even accused Russia of spreading "deep fakes" ahead of this weekend's crucial general election. He said on Twitter: "Dear Russian friends. You are behind the montages, conspiracies, deep fakes and tapes that were exposed in this country yesterday," he said without providing details. "If you want our friendship after May 15, get your hands off the Turkish state. We are still in favour of cooperation and friendship," he added. Meanwhile, Kremlin denied the allegations that it is meddling in the presidential election campaign. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "We strongly reject such statements. We officially declare: there can be no talk of any interference. If someone provided Mr Kilicdaroglu with such information, they are liars." (With inputs from agencies) 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 2023: Who is Kemal Kilicdaroglu - the ‘main rival’ of Erdogan

Turkey's third-party candidate Muharrem Ince on Thursday withdrew from the country's tight presidential election after the release of a purported sex tape, increasing the chances of the opposition's victory in the first round.

The decision was announced by the 59-year-old after he was targeted by an online smear campaign through which his doctored images were shared in which the minister was seen meeting women and riding around in luxurious cars.

The former school headteacher and longtime member of the Republican People’s party (CHP) claimed that alleged sex tape circulating online was a deepfake, using footage taken from “an Israeli porn site”.

“If I had such images of myself, they were taken secretly in the past. But I do not have such an image, no such sound recording. This is not my private life, it’s slander. It’s not real.” Ince was quoted as saying by the Guardian newspaper.

The secular nationalist leader had received 30.6 per cent of the vote when he had fought against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the presidential elections of 2018.

The leader then quit the main opposition party and started his own movement which began to attract votes away from secular leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who is the joint candidate of the anti-Erdogan bloc.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kilicdaroglu-leaves-erdogans-shadow-in-turkeys-election-campaign-589965">Kilicdaroglu leaves Erdogan's shadow in Turkey's election campaign</a>

"I'm withdrawing my candidacy," Ince said while speaking to reporters ahead of Sunday's voting. "I am doing this for my country,” he added.

Ince had faced ferocious criticism from the opposition for taking part in the campaign. Many people considered him a spoiler candidate who can only help Erdogan clinch a third decade of rule.

Ince counter-argued that he was offering a more vibrant alternative to voters compared to the 74-year-old Kilicdaroglu, whom he saw as a bookish former civil servant and someone who has lost multiple elections against Erdogan.

According to the last opinion polls, Kilicdaroglu was leading Erdogan by a few percentage points and was just a little away from breaking the 50-per-cent threshold which is required for a first-round win.

The popularity of Ince has been ebbing away after it touched around 15 per cent. The latest surveys showed the leader getting between two and four per cent of the vote.

However, that might not be enough to place Kilicdaroglu over the top. According to the Metropoll survey, around 30.5 per cent of Ince's support has moved to Kilicdaroglu and around 23.4 per cent went to Erdogan.

WATCH | Turkey elections: President Erdogan holds election rally

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Notably, the third-party candidate did not endorse any new candidate after he dropped out of the elections. His name will also appear on the presidential ballot even after he has left the race.

Meanwhile, the fourth minor candidate Sinan Ogan is believed to have been attracting votes from Erdogan.

"Another crazy day in Turkish politics," remarked emerging markets economist Timothy Ash.

"Ince withdraws, with the assumption that most of his votes now go to Kilicdaroglu, making it possible/more likely of a (Kilicdaroglu) first-round win,” he added. For days, Kilicdaroglu has been appealing for Ince to formally back his candidacy.

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Turkey's third-party candidate Muharrem Ince on Thursday withdrew from the country's tight presidential election after the release of a purported sex tape, increasing the chances of the opposition's victory in the first round.

Turkey's third-party candidate Muharrem Ince on Thursday withdrew from the country's tight presidential election after the release of a purported sex tape, increasing the chances of the opposition's victory in the first round. The decision was announced by the 59-year-old after he was targeted by an online smear campaign through which his doctored images were shared in which the minister was seen meeting women and riding around in luxurious cars. The former school headteacher and longtime member of the Republican People’s party (CHP) claimed that alleged sex tape circulating online was a deepfake, using footage taken from “an Israeli porn site”. “If I had such images of myself, they were taken secretly in the past. But I do not have such an image, no such sound recording. This is not my private life, it’s slander. It’s not real.” Ince was quoted as saying by the Guardian newspaper. The secular nationalist leader had received 30.6 per cent of the vote when he had fought against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the presidential elections of 2018. The leader then quit the main opposition party and started his own movement which began to attract votes away from secular leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who is the joint candidate of the anti-Erdogan bloc. ALSO READ | Kilicdaroglu leaves Erdogan's shadow in Turkey's election campaign "I'm withdrawing my candidacy," Ince said while speaking to reporters ahead of Sunday's voting. "I am doing this for my country,” he added. Ince had faced ferocious criticism from the opposition for taking part in the campaign. Many people considered him a spoiler candidate who can only help Erdogan clinch a third decade of rule. Ince counter-argued that he was offering a more vibrant alternative to voters compared to the 74-year-old Kilicdaroglu, whom he saw as a bookish former civil servant and someone who has lost multiple elections against Erdogan. According to the last opinion polls, Kilicdaroglu was leading Erdogan by a few percentage points and was just a little away from breaking the 50-per-cent threshold which is required for a first-round win. The popularity of Ince has been ebbing away after it touched around 15 per cent. The latest surveys showed the leader getting between two and four per cent of the vote. However, that might not be enough to place Kilicdaroglu over the top. According to the Metropoll survey, around 30.5 per cent of Ince's support has moved to Kilicdaroglu and around 23.4 per cent went to Erdogan. WATCH | Turkey elections: President Erdogan holds election rally Notably, the third-party candidate did not endorse any new candidate after he dropped out of the elections. His name will also appear on the presidential ballot even after he has left the race. Meanwhile, the fourth minor candidate Sinan Ogan is believed to have been attracting votes from Erdogan. "Another crazy day in Turkish politics," remarked emerging markets economist Timothy Ash. "Ince withdraws, with the assumption that most of his votes now go to Kilicdaroglu, making it possible/more likely of a (Kilicdaroglu) first-round win,” he added. For days, Kilicdaroglu has been appealing for Ince to formally back his candidacy. 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

Turkey's presidential candidate Ince drops out after release of 'sex tape'

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;

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;

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;

Afterwards, he quit the main opposition party and launched his own movement that started pulling votes away from secular leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu.&nbsp;

Kemal Kilicdaroglu is the joint candidate of the anti-Erdogan bloc.&nbsp;

"I'm withdrawing my candidacy," Ince told reporters ahead of Sunday's vote.&nbsp;

"I am doing this for my country."&nbsp;

Watch | Turkey Election 2023: Stiff challenge to Erdogan's reign

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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.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;

The latest surveys showed him picking up between two and four per cent of the vote.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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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

Millions will head to the polls next week to vote in Turkey's presidential and parliamentary elections, which observers expect will provide the toughest test to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's 20-year stronghold.

Turkey Election 2023: Stiff challenge to Erdogan's reign

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.&nbsp;

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)

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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

In Turkey's Hatay province, a multi-vehicle crash has killed at least 12 people while 31 others were injured. Three people as per news agency AP are grievously injured.

The accident, as per reports, happened late on Saturday when a truck crossed into the opposite lane after its driver lost control. It then collided with nine cars and two minibuses, reported state-run news agency Anadolu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kilicdaroglu-leaves-erdogans-shadow-in-turkeys-election-campaign-589965">Kilicdaroglu leaves Erdogan's shadow in Turkey's election campaign</a>

Several of these vehicles, as per the AP report, were parked alongside the road near a fuel station, with loved ones bidding farewell to men departing for Turkey's mandatory military duty.

As per a tweet by Turkey Health Minister Fahrettin Koca, 22 ambulances and three medical teams were dispatched to the scene of the accident in Topbogazali. He also said that after the crash on the Iskenderun-Antakya highway, fires broke out at the scene.

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Antakya’nın Topboğazlı mevkiinde yaşanan zincirleme trafik kazasında bir kamyonla otobüste yangın meydana gelmiş, 12 vatandaşımız hayatını kaybetmiş, 3’ü ağır olmak üzere 31 vatandaşımız yaralanmıştır. 
 
Olay yerine 22 ambulans ve 3 UMKE Ekibi görevlendirilmiştir. 
 
Hayatını…
— Dr. Fahrettin Koca (@drfahrettinkoca) <a href="https://twitter.com/drfahrettinkoca/status/1654931731772743681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Witnesses, as per the Anadolu report, claimed that some of those killed had burned to death.&nbsp;Vehicles on fire can be seen in videos and pictures circulating on social media, depicting the chaotic scene after the crash.

Take a look:

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A truck crash in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Topbo%C4%9Faz%C4%B1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Topboğazı</a> has killed at least 12 people with 31 left injured. It’s being reported the driver lost control hitting 9 cars and 2 minibus’s. A lot of the victims were men leaving for mandatory military service in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hatay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hatay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Turkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Turkey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/truckcrash?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#truckcrash</a> <a href="https://t.co/wP6FiI0oAL">pic.twitter.com/wP6FiI0oAL</a>
— 𝙰𝚒 𝙽𝚎𝚠𝚜 𝚁𝚎𝚙𝚘𝚛𝚝 (@AiNewsReport) <a href="https://twitter.com/AiNewsReport/status/1655128789419012097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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They show vehicles burning, as emergency teams attempt to keep people away from the blaze.

"May God have mercy on our citizens who lost their lives, I express my condolences to their relatives," tweeted Koca.&nbsp;

"We will do our best to ensure that the injured regain their health as soon as possible," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-heatwave-nation-reports-record-high-temperatures-of-43-degrees-589946">Vietnam heatwave: Nation reports record high temperatures of 43 degrees</a>

The truck, as per Demiroren, a private news agency, was carrying excavated earthquake rubble. It hit another truck before crossing the highway at around 7 pm&nbsp;local time (1600 GMT).

In February, Turkey was hit by a massive earthquake. Of the 11 affected Turkish provinces, Hatay was one of the worst hit by the February 6th earthquake.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Turkey's Hatay province, a multi-vehicle crash has killed at least 12 people while 31 others were injured. Three people as per news agency AP are grievously injured.

In Turkey's Hatay province, a multi-vehicle crash has killed at least 12 people while 31 others were injured. Three people as per news agency AP are grievously injured. The accident, as per reports, happened late on Saturday when a truck crossed into the opposite lane after its driver lost control. It then collided with nine cars and two minibuses, reported state-run news agency Anadolu. Also read | Kilicdaroglu leaves Erdogan's shadow in Turkey's election campaign Several of these vehicles, as per the AP report, were parked alongside the road near a fuel station, with loved ones bidding farewell to men departing for Turkey's mandatory military duty. As per a tweet by Turkey Health Minister Fahrettin Koca, 22 ambulances and three medical teams were dispatched to the scene of the accident in Topbogazali. He also said that after the crash on the Iskenderun-Antakya highway, fires broke out at the scene. Antakya’nın Topboğazlı mevkiinde yaşanan zincirleme trafik kazasında bir kamyonla otobüste yangın meydana gelmiş, 12 vatandaşımız hayatını kaybetmiş, 3’ü ağır olmak üzere 31 vatandaşımız yaralanmıştır. Olay yerine 22 ambulans ve 3 UMKE Ekibi görevlendirilmiştir. Hayatını… — Dr. Fahrettin Koca (@drfahrettinkoca) May 6, 2023 × Witnesses, as per the Anadolu report, claimed that some of those killed had burned to death. Vehicles on fire can be seen in videos and pictures circulating on social media, depicting the chaotic scene after the crash. Take a look: A truck crash in #Topboğazı has killed at least 12 people with 31 left injured. It’s being reported the driver lost control hitting 9 cars and 2 minibus’s. A lot of the victims were men leaving for mandatory military service in #Hatay #Turkey #truckcrash pic.twitter.com/wP6FiI0oAL — 𝙰𝚒 𝙽𝚎𝚠𝚜 𝚁𝚎𝚙𝚘𝚛𝚝 (@AiNewsReport) May 7, 2023 × They show vehicles burning, as emergency teams attempt to keep people away from the blaze. "May God have mercy on our citizens who lost their lives, I express my condolences to their relatives," tweeted Koca. "We will do our best to ensure that the injured regain their health as soon as possible," he added. Also read | Vietnam heatwave: Nation reports record high temperatures of 43 degrees The truck, as per Demiroren, a private news agency, was carrying excavated earthquake rubble. It hit another truck before crossing the highway at around 7 pm local time (1600 GMT). In February, Turkey was hit by a massive earthquake. Of the 11 affected Turkish provinces, Hatay was one of the worst hit by the February 6th earthquake. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

12 killed, 31 injured in multi-car crash in Turkey; victims burnt alive in resulting blaze

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 | <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> 
 
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 | <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> 
 
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?

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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.

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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

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