On June 23, 2019, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan faced a tense runoff in the country’s presidential election. Erdogan, who has been in power since 2003, was seeking another term as president, but was facing a strong challenge from his main rival, Muharrem Ince of the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP).
The election was seen as a critical moment for Turkey, with Erdogan’s increasingly authoritarian rule coming under scrutiny both domestically and internationally. Erdogan had been accused of cracking down on political opponents, journalists, and civil society groups, as well as eroding democratic institutions and the rule of law.
In the lead-up to the election, Erdogan campaigned on a platform of economic growth and stability, pointing to the country’s recent economic success and highlighting his government’s investments in infrastructure and social services. He also appealed to nationalist sentiment, emphasizing his commitment to defending Turkey’s sovereignty and national interests.
Ince, meanwhile, positioned himself as a champion of democracy and human rights, promising to reverse Erdogan’s crackdowns on civil liberties and restore the independence of the judiciary. He also pledged to address economic inequality and corruption, and to improve social services such as healthcare and education.
The runoff election was closely contested, with Erdogan ultimately securing a narrow victory with just over 52% of the vote. Ince, who had energized the opposition with his fiery speeches and populist appeal, won almost 31% of the vote.
Despite his victory, Erdogan’s hold on power remained tenuous, with the opposition gaining ground in both the presidential and parliamentary elections. The result was seen as a sign that Erdogan’s once-untouchable grip on Turkish politics was beginning to slip, and that the country’s democratic future was still uncertain.
