Are they all the same?

We hear the same words from almost everyone: 'The most unexciting, colorless election I've ever seen!'

Large masses, who were intensely politicized, especially during the May 14 and May 28 elections, were left disappointed by the results.

The economic crisis, which deepened further after hopes for change were postponed, accelerated people's distancing from politics and politicians...

The indifference toward the March 31 elections and the picture that will emerge is at its peak. It is possible to see the reflection of the general state of apoliticism among individuals in their voter identity in the best way during this process.

Undoubtedly, this picture does not disturb those in power; on the contrary, it pleases them. The apoliticism of laborers, intellectuals, and the segments that form social dynamics and can steer change, their cold stance toward politics, and even the apathy that comes with occasional anti-political rhetoric, are important for the continuity of the political power.

In addition to the disappointment of opposition voters, a state of dissatisfaction can also be seen among the masses whose supported political structure is in power. Here, in addition to the economic and social picture that has emerged, the weakening of trust in politicians, along with the thought/desire to influence the course of events, can be effective.

ESCAPE TO POPULAR CULTURE

As a result of this distancing/escape, there is an intense orientation toward the tools of popular culture. Individual solutions, activities, entertainment, and events are on the rise, and television channels continue their broadcasts in this direction. Series that come one after another, starting before the previous one ends; “competitions/struggles” that last for hours and where personal ambition, cunning, and fights are glorified beyond the competition, and human values are sacrificed for ratings; daytime programs where the manifestations of reactionary/feudal oppression come to light along with witnesses…

WHAT ABOUT THE POLITICIAN?

The picture we have tried to detail in its most general form also has a side concerning politicians, beyond the voters/individuals.

In a situation where programs, policies, and solutions are replaced by individuals, crazy projects, and intense criticism of other parties/candidates, the thought “there is no difference between them, they are all the same” emerges in people's minds. The state of depoliticization in the politician, the decrease in the clarity of the ideological/political line, and the weakening of the political identities of the parties support this thought.

IS THE LOCAL ELECTION A REHEARSAL?

In the local elections to be held on Sunday, March 31, 2024, Metropolitan, Provincial, and District Mayors, Municipal and Provincial General Assembly Members, and neighborhood heads (muhtars) will be elected.

The participation rate in the 2019 local elections was 84.67 percent. In the most recent General and Presidential elections on May 14, 2023, this rate increased to 87.04 percent. In the 2nd round of the Presidential election on May 28, the participation rate fell to 84.15 percent.

The rate at which voters go to the polls in local elections is of great importance in determining the result. Despite everything, the AKP wants to maintain its power in local areas, and even strengthen its rule by taking back the places it lost, especially Istanbul and Ankara.

The mood of the politician and the voter, and all the negative economic/social and cultural conditions are obvious. Despite all this, it should not be forgotten that the election is not just about choosing a mayor.

It is well known that winning or losing Istanbul, whose symbolic value is obvious, is not just about voting on who will do the work of construction, garbage collection, asphalt paving, and cobblestone renewal.

New Constitution debates, attacks on the Republic and its gains, the growing economic crisis, high cost of living, unemployment, impoverishment, the increase in demographic occupation…

Some of what will come our way starting from April 1…

“LIFE DOES NOT FORGIVE A VACUUM”

We are entering March 31 with situations such as the political arena only showing activity from election to election, parties being reduced to individuals through congresses and internal strife, and the lack of democracy and pluralism. In this environment where politics and the masses seem distant from policy, preferences will also be the determinants of the upcoming process. It is said that “Life does not forgive a vacuum.” Those who are waiting and looking for a way out may turn to political structures that move forward with a correct program, staff, and work in the future period.

We will continue this topic…