Today marks a historic moment for Turkey: Abdullah Gül of the AK Party is projected to become the 11th president of Turkey, despite fierce opposition from the army and other secularists. The military, which views itself as the guardian of Kemal Atatürk’s secular legacy, accuses Gül of pursuing an Islamist agenda.
The presidency, the last bastion of secularist control and the old bourgeoisie, is understandably difficult for them to relinquish to a former Islamist from Anatolia. Adding to their concerns, women wearing headscarves have been banned from official buildings, including the presidential palace—until now. With Gül’s wife becoming the first lady, this precedent will be broken.
Abdullah Gül is exceptionally qualified for the presidency. As foreign minister, he achieved remarkable success in reshaping Turkey’s relations with its neighbors—Syria, Iran, and Iraq—and strengthening ties with Turkic-speaking Central Asian countries. As president, Gül will wield significant authority, including appointing judges, university chancellors, and signing legislation—roles historically dominated by secularists.
He will also, at least in theory, command the military, further underscoring the significance of this transition.
4 comments:
Walking through Istanbul with my Turkish friend last year, a secular woman, I watched as she was shunned by women with scarves who turned their backs on her.
The rise of the AK party is giving the more religious Turks the support and impetus to force the country into an Islamist state.
The election of Gul will only split the country further. He may be a moderate but he encourages and emboldens the more fundamental elements.
It could have the effect that the military will feel the need to step in again to change the government. Look at the harsh language in the warning the military issued just yesterday. That would be a disaster to their EU hopes and for the economy.
John G-
Brooklyn, USA
i think all this talk of turning Turkey into an Islamic state is hogwash. i think nothing will change. i think the guy will lead seuclarly as he says he will. the secularists should at least let him try. HE got the most votes... from ALL of Turkey!!!
bishop,
I agree not much will change but soon a new constitution will be debated in the parliament which might change few things the secularists regard as important (i.e. girls wearing headscarves could get education like everyone else).
Peregrine,
We need to agree one what does it mean being an "Islamist state". What's been happening in Turkey is pittiful and has nothing to do with secularism. For example, girls wearing head scarves, a personal choice you would agree, aren't allowed to be citizens like everyone else; they can't go to university or work in government buildings - what do you call that?
The secularist are afraid of AKP giving equal rights to everyone and the rising middle class in Anatolia, basically a burguasi scared of losing their privilages.
The majority of the Turkish people have made it clear in this last election that they trust AKP and want Gul for president, that's what democracy should be about, don't you think?
This is what I think: The last castle
Post a Comment