Turkey’s democracy is dying as Erdogan dismantles opposition - opinion

A recent Turkish court ruling effectively dismantling the leadership of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) shatters the pretense of Turkey being a functioning democracy, according to an opinion piece. The move against CHP leader Ozgur Ozel is seen as a sign of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's vulnerability, not his strength.

The author argues that authoritarian leaders repress rivals when they fear losing power, particularly when elections become unpredictable, the economy falters, and charismatic opposition figures emerge. Turkey currently fits this description, facing inflation, currency collapse, and widespread fatigue. The CHP's success in the 2024 municipal elections, including victories in Istanbul and Ankara, demonstrated the opposition's ability to gain support despite state pressure.

This judicial intervention is interpreted as a clear signal of the ruling regime's insecurity. However, the piece cautions against mistaking this insecurity for imminent collapse. Unlike the assumption that authoritarian governments lacking legitimacy are inherently fragile, Turkey exemplifies how such regimes can remain durable by tightly controlling state institutions.

Over the past decade, Erdogan's government has systematically entrenched its power. Courts are seen to bend to executive will, independent media has been suppressed, law enforcement and regulators serve political objectives, and civil society faces intimidation. While elections continue, the playing field is heavily tilted, and dissent is consistently punished.