New transfer rumors in AKP corridors! They pointed to that metropolitan city...

While operations targeting CHP-run municipalities continue unabated, the AKP transferred 9 mayors on its 24th anniversary. The most talked-about of these transfers was Aydın Metropolitan Mayor Özlem Çerçioğlu.

Since the local elections on March 31, 2024, the AKP's transfer of 56 mayors has sparked debates in politics and public opinion, with claims that the AKP is trying to increase pressure on the opposition through these municipal transfers. According to the report by Cumhuriyet, it is being whispered in party corridors that new transitions will take place in the coming period.

In AKP corridors, the possibility of CHP's Bursa Metropolitan Mayor Mustafa Bozbey and Kütahya Mayor Eyüp Kahveci switching to the AKP is being discussed. In addition, it is among the allegations that independent Çamlıdere Mayor Adem Ceylan, YRP's Yozgat Mayor Kazım Arslan, and independent Şanlıurfa Mayor Kazım Gülpınar could take a similar step. AKP sources emphasize that they have adopted a selective approach in the participation processes, stating, “There is a lot of demand, but we are accepting them by vetting them.” The assessments within the party are also noteworthy: some AKP figures use the expression, “They already won by nominating candidates from the right. We are taking our candidates back.”

ELECTION STRATEGY

The possibility of municipalities joining the AKP is also being closely monitored by the opposition. In CHP and İYİ Party corridors, it is being discussed that these moves are aimed both at expanding the party's base in local governments and at sending a message to the public that “there is no disintegration, on the contrary, there is strengthening.” The assessment from the opposition front is clear: “The AKP is compensating for what it could not win in the elections through transfers.”

The AKP administration, on the other hand, views these municipal transitions as a strategy aimed at establishing psychological superiority ahead of the 2028 elections. Furthermore, it is stated that party staff plan to announce these participations in a “ceremonial atmosphere” and that President Erdoğan may include these names in his programs.

REFLECTIONS WITHIN THE PARTY

There are also different approaches within the AKP regarding this process. One segment believes that municipal transfers are critical in terms of “morale and motivation,” and that the party will find morale with the support coming from the provinces, especially after the election losses in metropolitan cities. However, the cautious wing points out that not every transition will create the same positive resonance. This group warns that in some places, these participations could create unrest within the organization.