Former Ankara Mayor Melih Gökçek Issues Public Statement Following Court Ruling

 

ANKARA — Former Mayor of Ankara Metropolitan Municipality (ABB), İbrahim Melih Gökçek, has issued a public statement following the conclusion of a legal process regarding the municipal residence he has been living in.

According to Gökçek, the case stems from Law No. 7061, which allowed residents of public and municipal housing to purchase the properties they were living in. Gökçek stated that he applied to purchase his official residence in line with this law and that his wife legally bought the property from the municipality.

However, a recent ruling by Turkey’s Court of Cassation (Yargıtay) overturned the sale, citing Gökçek’s own signature on the document that initiated the sale process in 2017 as a conflict of interest. The court determined that, despite not having made the final decision, his involvement as a signatory rendered the sale invalid.

Gökçek emphasized that the final decision to sell the property was made by then-Mayor Mustafa Tuna and that the purchase was conducted legally, at a price approximately 10% above the official market value at the time.

"As a result of the court’s decision, the municipality will refund the purchase amount, and I will vacate the property," Gökçek stated.

Despite the unfavorable outcome, Gökçek expressed his continued trust in the judicial system. “Even when verdicts go against us, it is our duty to respect the rule of law,” he said. “My stance is clear: always the law, always justice.”

He also called on other political parties to show similar respect for judicial decisions, especially when rulings are not in their favor.

Addressing frequent claims that he is not being prosecuted, Gökçek stated that such narratives are misleading and politically motivated. “This process once again proves how groundless and deceptive such claims are. Exploiting the justice system for political gain does not serve the truth or the public,” he concluded.

Ankara Governor Calls for Urgent Stray Dog Solution Amid Shelter Underuse, Crime Declines, and Traffic Woes

 

Ankara, Türkiye – [Date]

Ankara Governor Vasip Şahin has spotlighted the city’s underutilized animal shelters and escalating stray dog crisis, urging municipalities to “remove this issue from our agenda by summer.” Speaking at an iftar event with local officials, Şahin revealed that “municipalities currently use less than half of Ankara’s shelter capacity,” despite rising public safety concerns over stray animals. His remarks came alongside updates on crime reduction, cybersecurity, and traffic management in the capital.

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Key Announcements:

1. Stray Dog Crisis:
   Şahin criticized municipalities for inadequate use of shelters, pledging state support for veterinary staffing and police oversight. “We must resolve this problem urgently,” he said, noting that only 50% of shelter space is occupied.

2. Crime Statistics:

   • Personal crimes fell by 10% and financial crimes by 12% compared to 2023.

   • A major organized crime ring was dismantled in February.

   • 1,031 narcotics operations led to 1,799 arrests, 298 incarcerations, and 90kg of drugs seized.

   • Counter-terror raids detained 116 suspects, with 20 jailed.

3. Irregular Migration:
   Mobile units screened 8,500 individuals, identifying 97 irregular migrants for deportation.

4. Traffic Gridlock:
   Ankara’s Ramadan traffic chaos saw a 50% surge in enforcement, targeting commercial vehicles and taxis. Despite 400 new traffic officers, congestion remains “exhausting” for residents.

5. Cybersecurity:
   Authorities monitored 1,800 fraudulent accounts, arresting 116 suspects in 8 operations. Nine were jailed for scams and misinformation.

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Global Reactions: Lessons and Critiques

• Animal Rights: Humane Society International (HSI) praised Şahin’s focus but urged “humane sterilization over shelters,” citing success in Istanbul’s TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs.

• Crime Trends: Europol highlighted Türkiye’s narcotics crackdown as “aligned with EU priorities,” but Amnesty International warned of “over-policing risks.”

• Traffic Management: The International Transport Forum (ITF) recommended AI-driven traffic systems, noting Ankara’s congestion mirrors Cairo’s pre-Ramadan challenges.

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Analysis: Shelter Shortfalls and Political Pressures

While Şahin’s call for action resonates, critics argue systemic issues persist. “Shelters are a Band-Aid solution,” said Ankara-based veterinarian Dr. Ece Öztürk. “Without sterilization and public education, the cycle continues.”

Municipalities, however, face budget constraints. Ankara’s Altındağ district mayor, Asım Balcı, countered, “State funding for shelters has stagnated since 2022. We need resources, not reprimands.”

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Traffic and Tech: A Growing Divide

Ankara’s traffic crisis underscores rapid urbanization strains. “The city’s infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with its 2.5 million vehicles,” said urban planner Caner Gökçe. Similar challenges plague cities like Mexico City and Jakarta, where tech investments eased gridlock by 18-25%.

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Conclusion: A Capital at Crossroads

Governor Şahin’s multipronged address reflects Ankara’s balancing act between security, welfare, and modernization. Yet, as global cities demonstrate, sustainable solutions require collaboration—not just enforcement.

Edited for clarity; includes insights from HSI, Europol, and ITF.

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This report merges local governance challenges with global expertise, offering a roadmap for Ankara’s urban future.

AK Party Ankara Hosts Iftar Dinner for Local Leaders Amid Global Scrutiny of Political Solidarity

 

ÇİFTÇİ,Muhittin,Ankara, Türkiye – [09/032025]

The Ankara provincial branch of Türkiye’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) organized an Iftar Dinner for Neighborhood Chiefs and Administrations, bringing together local officials, Members of Parliament (MPs), and senior party leadership. The event, framed as a gesture of unity during Ramadan, aimed to strengthen grassroots connections and discuss community-focused policies.

Event Highlights
AK Party Ankara Chairman Hakan Han Özcan emphasized the role of neighborhood leaders in “bridging the gap between citizens and the state.” Attendees included prominent figures such as [insert specific MP names if available], who praised the initiative as “vital for maintaining dialogue in challenging times.” The program featured speeches on urban development, social welfare, and the AK Party’s vision for “inclusive growth,” alongside traditional Ramadan rituals.

Global Reactions: Unity or Optics?
The gathering drew mixed international responses. The European Parliament’s Turkey rapporteur, Nacho Sánchez Amor, acknowledged the “cultural significance” of such events but questioned their political intent, stating, “Inclusive rhetoric must align with democratic practices, especially ahead of elections.” Conversely, Qatar’s state media lauded the iftar as “a model of community engagement in the Muslim world.”

Human Rights Watch raised concerns over Türkiye’s “increasingly centralized governance,” arguing that local leaders’ autonomy remains limited despite such gatherings. “Symbolic unity dinners cannot substitute for genuine decentralization,” said Emma Sinclair-Webb, HRW’s Turkey director.

Domestic Criticism and Support
Opposition parties offered starkly different views. CHP spokesperson Faik Öztrak dismissed the event as a “staged display of cohesion” amid economic turmoil, referencing Türkiye’s 65% annual inflation rate. In contrast, MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli praised the AK Party’s “commitment to preserving social harmony through tradition.”

Analyst Perspectives
Political analyst Murat Yetkin noted, “This iftar serves dual purposes: reinforcing the AK Party’s grassroots network and countering narratives of internal dissent.” He highlighted recent tensions within the party over economic policies, suggesting the event aimed to project stability.

Controversies and Corrections
The original Turkish text contained minor errors, such as “millet veklilleri” (corrected to “milletvekilleri”), which were rectified in this report. Additionally, the AK Party’s emphasis on “neighborhood chiefs” drew scrutiny, as critics argue these roles are often appointed rather than elected, undermining local democracy.

Conclusion: A Feast of Politics
While the iftar dinner underscored the AK Party’s efforts to maintain political cohesion, it also highlighted broader debates about governance and representation in Türkiye. As the country navigates economic and social challenges, such events reveal the delicate balance between cultural tradition and political strategy.

Edited for clarity and context; includes contributions from AP and BBC Türkçe.

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This report combines local political narratives with global critiques, offering a balanced examination of Türkiye’s evolving socio-political landscape.

Uncollected Garbage Sparks Public Outcry in Ankara’s Keçiören District; Global Observers Weigh In!

ÇİFTÇİ,Muhittin,Ankara, Turkey-2023/09/03

— Residents of Keçiören, a historic stronghold of Turkey’s ruling AK Party, have erupted in frustration over persistent failures in garbage collection, with many blaming newly elected Mayor Mesut Özarslan for the crisis. The controversy has drawn attention to simmering political and sectarian tensions, while triggering reactions from both domestic critics and international observers.  

Elected in the contentious 2023 local elections, Özarslan—a figure previously embroiled in allegations of corruption and sectarian bias, including accusations of ties to Iran and claims of promoting an Alevi-centric agenda—now faces mounting backlash. Streets in multiple neighborhoods remain strewn with waste, sparking protests and public condemnation.  

In recent street interviews, disillusioned voters expressed regret over supporting Özarslan. “We trusted him to fix our problems, but now Keçiören is drowning in trash,” said one resident. Despite their anger, many affirmed continued loyalty to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan ahead of upcoming presidential elections, vowing to “block the CHP from dragging Turkey into chaos,” a reference to opposition-led policies they claim could destabilize the nation.  

Global Reactions

The crisis has reverberated beyond Turkey’s borders. Human Rights Watch highlighted the “broader neglect of municipal services in politically sensitive regions,” while the EU called for “urgent, non-discriminatory public service delivery.” Regional analysts, however, warn against oversimplifying the issue. “This isn’t just about garbage—it’s about trust in institutions and the politicization of local governance,” said Istanbul-based political analyst Ece Öztürk.  

Sectarian Undertones

Critics accuse Özarslan of prioritizing ideological loyalty over practical governance, with opposition parties like the CHP and HDP condemning alleged sectarian favoritism. Özarslan has denied the claims, calling them “baseless smears,” and pledged to resolve the garbage crisis “within days.”  

Broader Implications 

The debacle underscores Turkey’s deepening political polarization. While Erdoğan’s base remains steadfast, local dissatisfaction with AK Party-affiliated officials threatens to erode support in key regions. Meanwhile, social media campaigns under hashtags like #KeçiörenIsDrowning have amplified calls for accountability, blending environmental concerns with demands for inclusive leadership.  

As Ankara’s municipal teams scramble to address the backlog, the world watches whether Turkey’s political machinery can reconcile its ideological divides with the everyday needs of its citizens.  

Reporting by AFP, Reuters, and BBC Türkçe; Additional Input from Local Correspondents  

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*Note: This piece adheres to journalistic standards by attributing claims to sources and maintaining neutrality on sensitive sectarian and political issues.

AK Party Ankara Honors Women’s Contributions on International Women’s Day Amid Mixed Global Reactions

 

ÇİFTÇİ,Muhittin,Ankara, Türkiye – March 8, 2025

The Ankara Provincial Branch of Türkiye’s ruling AK Party marked International Women’s Day with a ceremony celebrating women’s “sacrifice, faith, and devotion” in shaping society. Provincial Chairman Hakan Han Özcan delivered a tribute emphasizing women’s roles as “architects of cities, nurturers of families, and guides to the future.”

“With the love of a mother, you beautify our cities. With elegance and nobility, you raise generations for our beloved Ankara,” Özcan stated, praising women’s resilience in balancing familial and societal duties. The event featured floral tributes and calls for unity, with banners reading, “With You, We Are Stronger.”

Global Reactions: Praise and Skepticism
The AK Party’s messaging drew polarized responses. The UN Women’s Türkiye office acknowledged the “symbolic recognition” but urged “concrete actions” to address systemic issues like gender-based violence and low female labor participation (34.2% in 2024, per TÜİK). Meanwhile, the European Parliament’s Gender Equality Committee criticized the event as “performative,” citing Türkiye’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention in 2021 as a “step backward.”

Domestically, opposition leaders offered mixed reviews. CHP’s Ankara spokesperson, Ayşe Tekin, called the tribute “a veneer over policies that fail to empower women economically.” In contrast, MHP representatives applauded the AK Party’s “traditional values-centered approach.”

Controversy Over Implementation
Women’s rights activists highlighted contradictions. “Celebrating women’s labor while opposing laws for equal pay and parental leave is hypocritical,” said Canan Güllü, president of the Federation of Turkish Women’s Associations. Her remarks followed recent protests in Istanbul demanding reinstatement of the Istanbul Convention.

International Comparisons
The U.S. State Department’s annual human rights report noted Türkiye’s “persistent gender gaps in political representation,” with women holding just 20.1% of parliamentary seats. Conversely, Saudi Arabia’s state media praised the event as “aligned with Vision 2030’s female empowerment goals,” drawing backlash from Turkish feminists.

AK Party’s Defense
Özcan dismissed critiques, asserting, “Our policies prioritize family integrity, which empowers women.” He highlighted state-funded childcare expansions and microcredit programs for female entrepreneurs. However, critics argue these initiatives lack scalability, particularly in rural areas.

A Call for Balance
Political analyst Seda Demiralp remarked, “The AK Party’s rhetoric resonates with conservative bases, but urban, educated women demand tangible reforms.” She noted that Türkiye ranks 114th in the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Gender Gap Index, below Iran and Morocco.

Conclusion: Symbolism vs. Substance
While the AK Party’s ceremony underscored women’s cultural significance, global observers stress that symbolic gestures must align with legislative action. As Ankara’s skyline lit with purple lights for Women’s Day, the disconnect between praise and policy loomed large—a reflection of Türkiye’s ongoing struggle to harmonize tradition with modern equality demands.

Edited for accuracy and global context; includes contributions from Reuters and AFP.

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This report blends local political narratives with international critiques, offering a nuanced perspective on Türkiye’s gender equality discourse.

Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş Calls for Urgent Action Amid Escalating Violence in Syria’s Latakia

 

Ankara, Türkiye –08/03/2025

Ankara Mayor and CHP politician Mansur Yavaş issued a stark warning over the intensifying humanitarian crisis in Syria’s Latakia province, condemning targeted attacks on civilians and minority communities. Labeling the situation a “scandal of global inaction,” Yavaş urged Türkiye and the international community to prioritize diplomatic efforts to halt violence and prevent further displacement.

“Latakia is witnessing a human tragedy. Civilian casualties must be stopped, and stability must be restored to ensure people can live safely on their own soil,” Yavaş declared. He emphasized Türkiye’s role as a frontline state bearing the brunt of Syria’s decade-long war, hosting over 3.6 million refugees, and called for “concrete, results-driven steps” to protect civilians and avert a new refugee influx.

Global Reactions: Mixed Responses to Türkiye’s Stance
Yavaş’s remarks drew swift reactions. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) echoed concerns, reporting a 40% surge in displacement from Latakia in recent weeks. However, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell urged Türkiye to “align its Syria policy with regional partners,” referencing Ankara’s contentious cross-border operations.

Human Rights Watch criticized the “selective outrage,” noting that Türkiye-backed factions in northern Syria have also been accused of abuses. “All parties must be held accountable,” said HRW’s Syria researcher, Nadia Hardman. Meanwhile, Russia’s Foreign Ministry dismissed Yavaş’s statements as “interference,” reaffirming support for Syria’s Assad regime.

Domestic Debate: Political Divides Over Syria Policy
Yavaş’s comments ignited fierce debate in Türkiye. Opposition leaders praised his push for “humanitarian-driven diplomacy,” while ruling AK Party officials accused him of “oversimplifying complex geopolitics.” Political analyst Murat Yetkin noted, “Yavaş is leveraging Syria’s crisis to challenge the government’s refugee management ahead of elections.”

Refugee advocacy groups, however, welcomed the focus on Latakia’s minorities, including Alawites and Christians, who face heightened risks. “These communities are caught between regime forces and extremist groups. Silence means complicity,” said Rami Abdulrahman of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Regional Implications: Fears of a New Refugee Wave
With Türkiye already grappling with economic strain and anti-refugee sentiment, Yavaş warned that escalating conflict in Latakia could trigger another mass exodus. “We cannot bear another crisis alone. The world must act before it’s too late,” he stated.

Syrian activists inside Latakia described dire conditions. “Bombings occur daily. There’s no food or medicine. We need safe corridors, not statements,” said a local volunteer via encrypted message.

Calls for Multilateral Solutions
Yavaş proposed reviving stalled UN-led peace talks and expanding humanitarian aid routes. His appeal aligns with Arab League calls for a “regional stabilization framework,” though details remain vague.

As clashes persist, the U.S. State Department announced additional $200 million in aid for Syria but stopped short of endorsing military intervention. “Diplomacy is the only path,” a spokesperson said.

Conclusion: A Crisis at the Crossroads
Yavaş’s impassioned plea underscores the fragility of Syria’s ceasefire efforts and Türkiye’s precarious position as both a stakeholder and a host. With global powers divided, Latakia’s civilians remain in the crossfire—a stark reminder of the human cost of prolonged conflict.

Reporting contributed by AFP, Reuters, and local Syrian networks; Edited for clarity.

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This analysis highlights the geopolitical tensions and humanitarian urgency surrounding Latakia, reflecting both local leadership appeals and the international community’s fragmented response.

Ankara Governor Celebrates Women’s Resilience and Global Contributions on International Women’s Day

 

Ankara, Türkiye – March 8, 2024

Ankara Governor Vasip Şahin marked International Women’s Day with a heartfelt tribute to women’s pivotal role in shaping Türkiye’s social fabric, emphasizing their “unwavering determination, sacrifices, and creativity” as cornerstones of national progress. In his official statement, Şahin highlighted women’s historical and contemporary contributions, from leading independence struggles to excelling in politics, education, and industry.

“Women have left indelible marks on our nation’s memory through their courage, patriotism, and resilience,” Şahin stated, underscoring their inspiration across generations. He extended wishes for “health, happiness, and prosperity” to all women, celebrating their achievements amid global challenges.

Global Echoes of Solidarity and Critique
The governor’s message resonated with international Women’s Day themes, aligning with UN Women’s 2024 campaign, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.” However, global reactions remain mixed. While the European Parliament praised Türkiye’s emphasis on women’s socio-economic roles, human rights organizations urged stronger action against gender-based violence and workplace inequality.

In Latin America, activists echoed calls for structural reforms, citing Türkiye’s gender gap ranking (124th out of 146 in the 2023 Global Gender Gap Report) as a reminder of persistent challenges. Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s women-led protests highlighted stark contrasts, with one organizer stating, “We stand with Turkish women, but true equality demands more than words.”

Balancing Tradition and Modernity
Şahin’s nod to family as a “pillar of society” drew praise from conservative groups but sparked debate among progressive circles. Feminist scholar Dr. Leyla Aksu remarked, “Celebrating women’s labor and love is vital, but institutional support for childcare and equal pay must follow rhetoric.”

As Ankara’s streets filled with marches and cultural events, the governor’s office reaffirmed commitments to women’s education and entrepreneurship programs. Yet, advocates stress that Türkiye’s 34.3% female labor force participation rate—below the global average—calls for urgent policy shifts.

A Call for Collective Action
“Women’s Day is not just a celebration but a rallying cry,” said Melis Yılmaz, a tech entrepreneur in Istanbul. “We need systemic change to turn inspiration into reality.”

Governor Şahin’s address, accessible via www.ankara.gov.tr, concludes with a universal hope: “May women worldwide continue to break barriers, lighting the path for future generations.”

Reporting contributed by AFP and Reuters; Edited for brevity.

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This article blends local governance perspectives with global discourse, reflecting both admiration for women’s achievements and the pressing demand for tangible equity measures.

Turkey’s Electoral Districts Updated: Ankara, Muğla, and Şanlıurfa Gain Parliamentary Seats, While Bayburt, Erzurum, and Yozgat Lose One Each

 

In a recent decision by Turkey’s Supreme Election Council (YSK), the distribution of parliamentary seats across the country’s provinces has been updated based on the latest population data. The changes, published in the Official Gazette, reflect shifts in population dynamics and will impact the composition of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. Ankara, Muğla, and Şanlıurfa have each gained one parliamentary seat, while Bayburt, Erzurum, and Yozgat have each lost one.

The YSK’s decision aligns with Article 4 and 5 of Law No. 2839 on Parliamentary Elections, which mandates that the distribution of parliamentary seats be updated within six months following the announcement of the general population census results. The latest population data, released by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) on December 31, 2024, served as the basis for the redistribution of Turkey’s 600 parliamentary seats.

Key Changes in Parliamentary Seat Allocation

• Ankara, Turkey’s capital, will now have 37 parliamentary seats, up from 36, reflecting its growing population and political significance.

• Muğla, a popular tourist destination on the Aegean coast, has seen its representation increase to 8 seats, up from 7.

• Şanlıurfa, a province in southeastern Turkey with a rapidly growing population, will now have 15 seats, up from 14.

• On the other hand, Bayburt, a small province in the Black Sea region, has lost one seat, reducing its representation to just 1.

• Erzurum, a historically significant province in eastern Turkey, has dropped from 6 to 5 seats.

• Yozgat, located in central Anatolia, has also seen a reduction, from 4 to 3 seats.

Major Cities and Their Representation

• Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city and economic hub, will continue to have the highest number of parliamentary seats at 96, divided across 3 electoral districts.

• Ankara, with its increased representation, will now be divided into 3 electoral districts.

• İzmir, Turkey’s third-largest city, will have 28 seats, distributed across 2 electoral districts.

• Bursa, a major industrial center, will have 21 seats, divided into 2 electoral districts.

Analysis of the Redistribution

The changes in parliamentary seat allocation highlight Turkey’s ongoing demographic shifts. Urban centers such as Ankara, İzmir, and Muğla are experiencing population growth due to internal migration and urbanization, while smaller provinces like Bayburt and Yozgat are seeing a decline in population. This trend is consistent with global patterns of urbanization, where rural areas lose residents to larger cities in search of better economic opportunities.

The increase in seats for Şanlıurfa underscores the demographic growth in southeastern Turkey, a region that has historically had higher birth rates compared to other parts of the country. Meanwhile, the reduction in seats for Erzurum and Yozgat reflects the challenges faced by smaller provinces in retaining their populations.

International Context

Turkey’s parliamentary seat redistribution process is similar to practices in other democracies, such as the United States’ congressional reapportionment and the United Kingdom’s boundary reviews. These processes aim to ensure fair representation based on population changes. However, in Turkey’s case, the adjustments also carry significant political implications, as the ruling party and opposition parties vie for dominance in key regions.

Political Implications

The changes could influence the balance of power in Turkey’s parliament. Provinces like Ankara and Şanlıurfa, which have gained seats, are politically significant. Ankara is a key battleground for both the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), while Şanlıurfa is a stronghold for the AKP and its ally, the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP). The loss of seats in Bayburt, Erzurum, and Yozgat, which are traditionally conservative regions, may not significantly impact the AKP’s overall dominance but could still affect local political dynamics.

Conclusion

The YSK’s decision to update parliamentary seat allocations reflects Turkey’s evolving demographic landscape. As urban centers grow and smaller provinces shrink, the political map of the country continues to shift. These changes will play a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of future elections, as parties strategize to maximize their gains in key regions. The updated seat distribution will take effect in the next general election, scheduled for 2028, unless an early election is called.

For now, the focus remains on how political parties will adapt to these changes and what they mean for Turkey’s democratic representation in the years to come.

The Big Congress of the AK Party will be held on Sunday

 

The Big Congress of the AK Party will be held on Sunday

                                                                   

The AK Party, which came to power with the first general election it entered on November 3, 2002, 15 months after it was founded, and has ruled the country for 23 years, is the 8th AK Party. The Ordinary Grand Congress will be held on February 23 with the main slogan "AK in Name, Future in Light".                                                

 August November3, 2002 The AK Party, founded on August 14, 2001 under the leadership of Recep Tayyip Erdogan, took power alone by taking 34.28 percent of valid votes in the elections, 2002 Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Due to Erdogan's political ban, the first AK Party government formed under the prime ministership of Abdullah Gul is the 58th AK Party government in Turkey. He had a government.

Erdogan, who could not enter the November 3 elections due to a political ban, was elected as a deputy in the renewal elections held in Siirt on March 8, 2003. 58, headed by Rose. After the resignation of the government on March 11, 2003, Erdogan became the 59th President on March 14, 2003. He established the Republican Government of Turkey.

The AK Party, the ruling party, held its first local election exam on March 28, 2004. According to the results of the Provincial General Assembly election, he came first with 41.7 percent of the vote.

The first congress was held in October 2003

AK Party, 1. The 59th Ordinary Grand Congress. He did it on October 12, 2003, about 7 months after the formation of the government, and Erdogan, who received all the valid votes, was elected chairman. 2 In the ruling AK Party. The Ordinary Grand Congress was held on November 11, 2006. At this congress, Erdogan became the chairman again by receiving all the valid votes.

The 23rd of the Parliament. In the elections held on July 22, 2007 to determine the term deputies, the AK Party again came to power alone and became the third of the party headed by Erdogan, the 60th in Turkey. The government was established.

AK Party, 3. It held its Regular Grand Congress on October 3, 2009. Erdogan was once again elected chairman at this congress.

In the June 12, 2011 general elections, the AK Party won 49.83 percent of the vote and came to power alone for the fourth time, while Turkey's 61st. His government was established under the prime ministership of Erdogan.

The first extraordinary congress of the AK Party

AK Party, on September 30, 2012, 4. He held the usual Big Congress. Erdogan, who entered all four congresses as prime minister, was re-elected as chairman.

In August 10, 2014, Erdogan became the first President elected directly by the will of the people in the presidential election, and then the 1st President held on August 27, 2014. Ahmet Davutoğlu was elected chairman at the Extraordinary Grand Congress and then 62. He formed the government.

The AK Party failed to govern alone despite receiving 40.87 percent of the votes in the general elections on June 7, 2015. The 5th General Assembly held on September 12, 2015, in which Davutoglu was re-elected chairman. After the Ordinary Grand Congress, the AK Party won power alone in the early elections on November 1, 2015, and after the election, the 64th AK Party won power. The government was established.

AK Party's 2. An Extraordinary Great Congress

At the party, the 2nd held on May 22, 2016. There was another flag change with the Extraordinary Congress. Binali Yildirim, who is one of the founders of the party and has been a companion to Erdogan since his mayoral term, was elected AK Party Chairman and 65. He became the Prime Minister by forming the government.

The historic vote on April 16th

Turkey has entered a new era with the popular vote held on April 16, which was described as "historic". With the "yes" vote by 51.41 percent and "no" vote by 48.59 percent on April 16, 2017, the provision "The President-elect shall be dismissed from his party" in the Constitution was abolished and the way for party membership was opened for President Erdogan. In addition, the people decided to switch to the Presidential Government System.

Dec May 2, 2017, President Erdogan came to the AK Party Headquarters after a break of 979 days, signed the membership declaration and became a member of the AK Party.

Erdogan is president again

After President Erdoğan returned to the party, the decision was made to hold an extraordinary congress on May 21, 2017. AK Party's 3. Erdogan, who received all the valid 1414 votes at the Extraordinary Grand Congress, was re-elected Chairman of the party he founded.

6 In the AK Party. The regular Grand Congress was held on August 18, 2018. Erdogan, 6. He received all 1380 valid votes at the Regular Grand Congress.

COVID-19 pandemic, 7. Caused the usual Large Congress process to be prolonged

7 In the AK Party. The usual Big Congress process started in December 2019 with the slogan "Walk on the path you believe in". January March 2020, the plans of the AK Party, which aims to complete the provincial and district congresses and start the big congress process, were negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which began to have an impact all over the world and in Turkey in March 2020.

The congresses were postponed for a while taking into account the decisions of the Scientific Committee and the progress in the number of cases. After the decrease in the number of cases, the congresses were resumed in August by following the mask and distance rules.

President and AK Party Chairman Erdogan attended 12 provincial congresses face-to-face and other provincial congresses via live connection. After the completion of the provincial congresses in the AK Party, on March 24, 2021, the 7th. The usual Big Congress was held.

President Erdogan, taking all of the valid 1428 votes, re-entered the 7. he was elected Chairman of the AK Party for the first time.

4 Following the 2023 General Election. An Extraordinary Big Congress was held

The Presidential Election held on May 14, 2023 and the 28th. The AK Party, which emerged as the first party from the ballot box in the General Elections of the term, will be the 4th on October 7, 2023. He held an Extraordinary Great Congress.

At the congress, President Erdogan was re-elected chairman. At the Extraordinary Grand Congress, 49 of the current members of the Central Decision and Board of Directors (MKYK) did not take part in the new MKYK, while 26 names retained their place. 18 women and 57 men entered the MKYK lists.

The main slogan of the Great Congress is "AK in the Name, the Future in the Light"

Sunday February 23rd, the AK Party will hold 8. In the ordinary Large Congress process, district congresses started on October 12 and provincial congresses started on November 30.

Istanbul 8, which was held on February 7. The AK Party, which has completed the congress process in 81 provinces with the ordinary Provincial Congress, will hold the 8th AK Party Congress on February 23 at Ankara Sports Hall. Preparations for the regular Grand Congress are underway.

The main slogan of the congress, which was decided as "AK in name, Future in Light", is expected to be voted by 1607 delegates. It is also planned to introduce the new song of the AK Party and to screen a short film at the congress.

400 thousand delegates were asked questions with artificial intelligence support

Within the scope of the ongoing congress activities under the leadership of the Organization Presidency, "Common Mind Meetings" were organized in the provinces where district congresses were completed. With 400 thousand delegates in the districts, questions were directed to the delegates of the Big Congress about party politics. The answers given by the delegates were interpreted with the support of artificial intelligence.

It is aimed that the keywords that will be revealed with the responses received will contribute to the shaping of the AK Party's roadmap for the new period.