AKP begins negotiations for new MP transfers! Goal: Constitutional amendment without a referendum

Entering the new year with MP transfers, the AKP's goal is to reach 400 deputies to amend the constitution without holding a referendum. Assessments suggesting that this number can be reached are coming to the fore in political circles.

According to a report by Cumhuriyet, it is stated that sources close to the party leadership are using the phrase, "Parliamentary arithmetic is not a problem for us." This assessment is based on the expectation that the current distribution in Parliament could change not only through inter-party consensus but also through individual MP movements.

IS THE CONSTITUTIONAL CALCULATION BEING MADE BY NUMBERS RATHER THAN NEGOTIATION?

In political circles, it is being discussed that the constitutional amendment process may be shaped more by MP defections than by the classic political negotiation ground. It is stated that party strategists are handling the 360 and 400 MP thresholds separately, and that reaching the number 400 is defined as a "strategic goal."

In this context, the situation of the New Way Group (Yeni Yol Grubu) is also being closely monitored. In AKP circles, it is being voiced that the group may not be able to maintain its current structure and that there is a high probability of it dissolving in the coming period. In such a scenario, it is stated that it is possible for some MPs who will leave the group to turn to the AKP instead of remaining independent. It is assessed that this mobility may increase as the constitutional process approaches.

CONTACTS INTENSIFYING ON DEVA AND GELECEK PARTIES

One of the topics most openly discussed in political circles is the contacts being carried out with DEVA Party and Gelecek Party MPs. It is alleged that some figures from these parties are approaching the idea of switching to the AKP positively, that one-on-one meetings are being held, and that some contacts have "matured."

Furthermore, it is stated that calculations are also being made regarding MPs who currently hold independent status. It is being discussed that these defections may be reflected to the public after the framework of the constitutional process becomes clear.

CLAIMS REGARDING CHP AND İYİ PARTY DISCUSSED IN POLITICAL CIRCLES

Another claim that draws attention in political circles and creates discomfort on the opposition front is that some MPs from the CHP and the İYİ Party are also on the transfer list. It is reported that sources close to the AKP are making the assessment that "there are names being negotiated from every party." It is stated that these contacts are currently being carried out within a narrow framework and away from the public eye, but that unexpected defections could occur before critical votes.

"POLITICAL ENGINEERING" CRITICISM ON THE OPPOSITION FRONT

In opposition circles, these claims that have come to the agenda are met with criticisms of "political engineering directed at the will of Parliament." The view is expressed that attempting to secure a majority through MP transfers on an issue that requires social consensus, such as the constitution, would make democratic legitimacy controversial.

In AKP circles, it is stated that the roadmap regarding the constitutional amendment will become clearer as the parliamentary calendar becomes more defined. It is stated that possible MP defections could be announced to the public close to the time the constitutional proposal is submitted to Parliament.