On 18 August, Yusuf Halacoglu, president of the Turkish History Foundation (TTK) had made controversial comments on the ethnic make-up of Turkey at a symposium in Kayseri. Associations have called for his resignation.

A survey of people in the streets of Karaköy and Tophane, in central Istanbul, showed that there were mixed feelings about Güls candidacy. Those that welcomed it did not fear for the laicism of Turkey. Others spoke longingly of military intervention.

The Purple Roof has said that 644 women affected by domestic violence have applied to the organisation in the first six months of this year. The association protested about the lack of sheltered housing and the absence of state support.

What stuck most in mind after Republican Rallies was how many women had taken part. We have asked women about their thoughts on AKP, after the partys landslide in elections. Some fear sharia, while others say there is nothing to be frightened of.