Crack in the AKP over the 'opening': Warning that 'we will be the ones who lose in the elections'

Discussions regarding the way the 'opening' process is being managed are growing in the AKP corridors. It has been learned that some figures within the party have issued a warning, saying, "If we continue this way, we will be the ones who lose politically."

Within the party leadership, it is assessed that the biggest dilemma of the process is that "the PKK's Syrian affiliates are not laying down their arms." Sources report that the organization's continued presence on the ground is causing serious question marks in the Turkish public opinion.

"PROGRESS IS DIFFICULT WITHOUT DISARMAMENT"

According to the information obtained, one of the most frequently expressed views in internal party discussions is as follows:

"It is difficult to explain every step taken without disarmament to the public. This situation damages trust in the process."

Some figures within the AKP state that the process in its current form strengthens the hand of the opposition, and that the perception that "the AKP is making concessions while the organization does not lay down its arms" is gradually strengthening in the public eye.

"THE PUBLIC DOES NOT TRUST THE PROCESS"

According to party sources, the reaction of citizens to the process is also increasing. In internal party assessments stating that steps to be taken in an environment where terrorism has not completely ended weaken social support, the view that "the public does not trust the process" comes to the fore.

Moving the process to Parliament has also increased the debates. The reflection of the commission's work to the public has led to new polemics both within the AKP and among wider segments of society.

Some party officials commented, "The commission made the process transparent, but it also gave material to the opposition."

In the AKP corridors, the view is expressed that if the PKK's structure in Syria does not lay down its arms, security risks for Turkey will continue. Party sources assess that "as long as there is an armed structure on the border, the chance of success for the process is slim."

DIFFERENT VOICES WITHIN THE PARTY

Two different approaches regarding the process stand out within the party:

One segment argues that the process should be continued.

The other segment is of the opinion that "it is difficult to carry this burden without public support."

It is being discussed in the corridors that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will also make his final decision regarding the process after monitoring the "course of social support."