​2022 starter kit for Turkish Politics

TURKEY - In Brief 04 Jan 2022 by Atilla Yesilada

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While we were away, “business as usual” prevailed in Turkish politics.For those who really need a starter kit, “business” is discretionary government running amok, uncertainty rising by the day, as well as unbearable static electricity in the air. It sounds disingenuous to write a Market Brief, the essential message of which is “the same…only more so”, but bear with this bedraggled veteran:Turkey is in the midst of a “regime shift” from a decade of Erdogan dominance to a more fractured power structure. Times of transition means “too many moving parts” for this humble commentator. I wanted to start the year off by informing my respected audience about what I shall focus on to predict the future.There are only five items on the list:Erdogan’s miraculous recovery, the rise of the opposition, early elections, polls, and natural or not-so-natural disasters. Erdogan’s health As late as 29 October 2021, Turkey’s Independence Day, Erdogan was seen stumbling during the ceremonies, with very little physical activity on his agenda. In November, he regained some of his health. In December he was 20 years younger in physical appearance. What is going on here? I shall not pay homage to endless rumors of “doping” but clearly something is un-holly. Let me add that his physical recovery was not reflected to his decision-making vigor. I continue to monitor news chatter about his health closely, predicting that he shall soon once again fall un-well. The opposition rises behind the clouds Led by Kilicdaroglu, the 6-party Nation Alliance kept its laser-sharp focus on exposing the silliness of Erdoganomics, as well as promising the nation a better future with some but not sufficient specifi...