AKP signals new “self-criticism” phase as election pressure builds

Turkey’s ruling AKP is entering another phase of internal “self-assessment” amid declining poll numbers and growing public dissatisfaction. Party officials are discussing past mistakes, voter alienation, and strategy adjustments ahead of a potential early election, while analysts question whether such efforts will translate into meaningful change.

AKP launches internal review amid falling support

Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) is once again initiating an internal “accountability and self-criticism” process, a pattern often observed when polling numbers weaken and election timelines come into view.

According to party insiders, recent executive meetings have focused on identifying:

• Policy missteps
• Organizational weaknesses
• Reasons behind voter disengagement

The aim is to reassess governance performance and rebuild public trust ahead of upcoming elections.

Familiar rhetoric returns

Observers note that similar reform narratives have been repeated multiple times in the past, often without lasting structural change.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan had previously called for “new Omars”—a reference to Islamic history symbolizing justice, integrity, and accountability—promising to remove figures linked to corruption or misconduct.

However, critics argue that such pledges have rarely led to sustained reform.

Growing pressure from economic and political challenges

The renewed introspection comes against a backdrop of mounting challenges, including:

• Persistent economic crisis and high cost of living
• Allegations of corruption and favoritism
• Concerns over judicial independence
• Rising unemployment and declining purchasing power

These issues are widely seen as key drivers of voter dissatisfaction.

Strategy shift ahead of elections

Party officials are increasingly focused on electoral strategy as the next vote approaches.

According to insiders:

• Elections are expected within the next 1.5 to 2 years
• Greater attention will be paid to local organization performance
• Candidate selection processes may be revised

The leadership is also seeking to better understand voter behavior, particularly among those who have distanced themselves from the party.

Early election debate intensifies

Discussions within the AKP suggest that an early election may be unavoidable, particularly if President Erdoğan is to run again.

Two possible timelines are being considered:

• Autumn 2027
• Spring 2028

However, officials acknowledge a growing tension between political timing and economic realities.

Economy complicates election planning

Initial expectations had been that:

• Inflation would fall to single digits
• Economic conditions would improve by 2027

This would have created a favorable environment for elections.

However, recent developments—including the Iran war and its economic fallout—are disrupting these projections, forcing a reassessment of electoral strategy.

Polls show shifting political landscape

Recent polling data suggests that the opposition may be gaining ground.

According to SONAR Research:

• The main opposition CHP leads the AKP by approximately 3.5 percentage points

At the same time, analysts highlight unusually high levels of undecided voters:

• Undecided voters exceed 30% in some surveys

This makes it difficult to accurately gauge the true balance of political support.

“Hidden opposition vote” may be underestimated

Polling experts suggest that opposition support may be underrepresented.

Some voters:

• Hesitate to disclose their preferences
• Avoid answering poll questions

As a result, analysts estimate that opposition parties could be undercounted by 3 to 4 percentage points.

Structural issues remain unresolved

Despite renewed calls for self-criticism, analysts point to deeper structural challenges within the party, including:

• Centralized decision-making
• Weak internal consultation mechanisms
• Limited tolerance for dissenting voices

These factors are seen as obstacles to meaningful reform.

Various Turkish news sources, PA Turkey news desk