Ruling AK Party reviews parliamentary performance amid election aftermath
President and AK Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdogan addresses his party's Parliament Group session, Ankara, Türkiye, June 26, 2024. (AA Photo)
The ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) continues to analyze the reasons behind its vote loss in the March 31 local elections, with internal assessments ongoing.
Amid reports of potential dismissals of some deputy chairpersons, efforts are being made to enhance organizational efficiency. This time, scrutiny has turned toward AK Party deputies in the Turkish Parliament.
100 deputies not active
AK Party executives have been reviewing the parliamentary performance of their deputies. According to sources, it was found that nearly 100 deputies have not been active in legislative activities in Parliament.
Within this context, the party leadership has begun holding meetings to address this issue, emphasizing the importance of active participation in legislative processes.
Erdogan troubled by the situation
It was noted that almost all of the inactive deputies are first-time legislators. Experienced deputies have expressed dissatisfaction with this situation, frequently informing the party leadership and urging first-time deputies to be more active.
There are also rumors that President and AK Party leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan may issue a warning in the coming days.
Last February, President Erdogan criticized his party’s deputies for insufficient attendance at general assembly meetings of Parliament. He highlighted the attendance issues in a speech informed by reports and complaints from the group management.
In the parliamentary elections held on May 14, 2023, 63.49% of Parliament was renewed, with 335 out of 600 deputies elected for the first time. Of the 268 seats held by the AK Party, 148 deputies are serving their first term. In the 27th term of the Turkish Parliament, 32 deputies never took the floor in the general assembly.
