content tagged with presidential election 2007

Abdullah Gül has formally applied to the parliament presidency for his candidacy. In a press statement he said that he would obey the principle of neutrality and protect the basic elements of the constitution: I will keep the promises I made.

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.

CHP vice chairperson Özyürek has stated that the CHP will not enter parliament for the presidential elections. Should Gül become president, they would not join receptions at the residence or trips abroad. The AKP is trying to take revenge.

Despite the CHPs strong reaction towards Güls announcement of his renewed candidacy, academics Tosun and Baskaya have interpreted recent developments as a kind of compromise between AKP and the state, the army and the bureaucratic guardian elite.

At yesterdays meeting of the AKPs central executive council, Gül announced his renewed candidature for the presidency. He was supported by Prime Minister Erdogan. CHP chairperson Baykal reacted furiously.