Turkey submits bill to expand power of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
The reforms lead to switching to an executive presidency like that seen in the United States or France
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Turkey’s ruling party has submitted a bill to expand the powers of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The reforms would see the country switching to an executive presidency like that seen in the United States or France.
Mr Erdogan has been seeking the change in the constitution since 2014, but critics have accused him of becoming increasingly authoritarian.
The President said he hoped the bill would receive enough support to have the case put to the public in the form of a referendum.
“I hope that it will pass the parliament in a successful vote exceeding 330 to call a referendum,” Mr Erdogan said at a rally in Istanbul, according to AFP. “God willing, it will be the beginning of a new era.”
Mr Erdogan’s supporters say it will help to make the political system more efficient and the move is needed, especially after the military coup in July.
His opponents, however, believe the move could lead to the nation becoming a one-party state.
Deputy Prime Minister Nurettin Canikli said that a consensus had been agreed between the National Movement Party and the ruling Justice and Development Party.
Mr Canikli suggested a referendum could take place in March, April or May.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments