The Republican Turkish Party (CTP) made significant statements regarding the election reform, which has been brought to the agenda just a few months ahead of the elections. CTP highlighted that their committee voted against the Election and Referendum (Amendment) Bill due to concerns about the timing of the regulation and the political calculations among government parties. The party noted that although they believe such reforms are a concrete requirement, the timing of their implementation is of utmost importance.
In a written statement, CTP emphasized its continued advocacy for the necessity of a democratic election reform. However, the party expressed concern that these reforms could become part of the last-minute adjustments and political reckonings that arise during the election period. In this context, the abolishment of the mixed voting system has been identified as a key element of CTP’s future reform plans.
The statements stressed the need for a system where voters can express their preferences through programs and policies rather than individual candidates. It was pointed out that such significant reforms should not be made solely in line with short-term political calculations before elections.
Changes Needed in the Election System
CTP’s statement emphasized that the election system is one of the fundamental elements of a democratic order. Therefore, it was suggested that a broadly participatory Ad Hoc Committee in the Assembly, which includes the views of political parties, legal experts, academics, and civil society, should be established during the development process of the new system.
Additionally, CTP argued that the reforms planned for the Local Government Bodies Election on December 6, 2026, should not be rushed, emphasizing the importance of approaching changes in the election system within a framework of broad consensus rather than under the pressure of the political agenda.
Future Reform Initiatives
CTP asserted that the current initiative largely stems from internal disputes among government parties. It was also noted that this reform proposal lacks broad political consensus. Furthermore, details such as the proposal being presented by a member of parliament on May 9, 2023, and returned to the committee without being voted on in the General Assembly on June 30, 2025, were recalled.
If CTP successfully earns the mandate from the public in the upcoming general elections, it announced that it would initiate a comprehensive reform process in the Election and Referendum Law. It was highlighted that the new election system would be based on an understanding of competition between political programs and policies, and it was also stated that there needs to be a balance between justice in representation and stability in governance.
Source: www.diyaloggazetesi.com
