Economist Podcasts AK, not quite OK: Turkey’s elections
Apr 1, 2019
Fyatr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, discusses the recent local elections in Turkey, revealing how economic mismanagement has led to significant losses for the ruling AK party while still retaining power. The conversation highlights the role of Kurdish voters and the broader implications for Turkey's political landscape. Erin Conway-Smith provides a harrowing look at the aftermath of Cyclone Idai in Mozambique, detailing the struggles of survivors in the face of food shortages and health crises, while showcasing their resilience amid climate change challenges.
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AK Party's Setback
- Turkey's ruling AK Party, led by President Erdogan, faced its first major electoral setback.
- The party lost control of key cities like Ankara and potentially Istanbul amidst an economic downturn.
Two Realities in Turkey
- The Turkish election results presented two narratives: government-spun success and opposition upset.
- The AK Party retained popular vote majority but lost major cities, including Istanbul, the economic hub.
Shifting Power Dynamics
- Kurdish voters and the AKP's nationalist partners are now key power brokers in Turkish politics.
- This election was a significant win for the opposition, despite limited media coverage and challenging circumstances.