AKP Camp Reveals Internal Divisions Over Culture, Economy, and Alliance Stability
A weekend retreat for Turkey’s ruling AKP party in Kızılcahamam exposed simmering tensions within the party regarding cultural sensitivities, economic anxieties, and the future of its political alliances. The discussions, revealed by a party spokesman, highlight a growing disconnect between leadership and rank-and-file members.
The camp served as a platform for direct complaints to President Erdoğan, including concerns over a recent theater production. A deputy from Diyarbakır reportedly voiced objections, stating, “My wife’s husband” complained to Erdoğan about the play and argued, “Diyarbakır is a conservative city. How to allow such a game?” This led to swift action from Culture Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, who initially renamed the production to a “marriage comedy” before ultimately removing it altogether.
Ministry Under Fire, Alliance Questions Raised
Criticism wasn’t limited to cultural issues. A visually impaired party founder directly challenged Family Minister Mahinur Göktaş, deeming the ministry’s performance “no service.” A senior party official responded by questioning whether Göktaş was the sole female minister in the cabinet, a remark perceived as dismissive.
The future of the AKP’s governing coalition also came into question. The alliance between the AKP, MHP, and Dem parties left many deputies “confused,” with some openly questioning the continued viability of the partnership. “Did we have an alliance partner?” one AKP member reportedly asked, signaling a growing uncertainty about the political landscape.
Economic Concerns Dominate Discussions
Economic hardship emerged as a central theme of the camp, with deputies expressing widespread frustration over the cost of living. MPs voiced concerns over discrepancies in economic policies, questioning why retirement benefits for officers are adjusted twice yearly while the minimum wage remains stagnant. “Citizens are complaining about economic difficulties, changing prices every day, interest rates, uncontrolled rents,” one official relayed.
Some members advocated for diversifying economic strategies, but their proposals met resistance from Treasury and Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek. He cautioned against excessive intervention, stating, “It is not right to configure everything. After a while it becomes a habit of not paying debt.” This response underscores a fundamental disagreement within the party regarding the appropriate level of state involvement in the economy.
The revelations from the Kızılcahamam camp paint a picture of a party grappling with internal divisions and facing mounting pressure from economic realities. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the AKP can address these challenges and maintain its grip on power.
