Erdogan pursuing radical change in country management, columnist says

Turkish newspaper Hurriyet’s prominent columnist Abdulkadir Selvi noted in his column that President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is planning a dramatic change in his party’s and government’s management which will not only mean a change in AK Party team, but a change in AK Party’s paradigm as well.

Erdogan’s view: Fundamental shift in mindset

Selvi delves into the transformative winds sweeping through Turkish politics, spearheaded by Erdogan’s strategic maneuvers. Selvi’s insights hint at a seismic shift, not merely in personnel reshuffling but in the very essence of political paradigms.

President Erdogan’s resolute stance toward change echoes throughout his cabinet and party, yet it’s the nature of this change that distinguishes his vision.

“This isn’t just about swapping seats but rather a fundamental shift in mindset – a paradigm shift. The sequence is clear: first, alter the paradigm, then appoint the suitable cadre,” Selvi said.

Erdogan as champion of humanitarian diplomacy

Such a broad perspective from Erdogan is a positive sign, Selvi suggests, indicating an evolving political landscape. However, beyond the surface, deeper work is afoot. Think tanks akin to idea factories are buzzing with activity, brewing policies set to invigorate public discourse upon their unveiling. Selvi anticipates a wave of excitement as this new roadmap takes shape.

While the focus often hones in on domestic politics, Selvi broadens the lens. He points out that the roadmap laid out isn’t solely domestic; it extends globally, with Erdogan poised to make an international appeal for humanity’s sake. Given Erdogan’s prominence in addressing global issues and his role as a champion of humanitarian diplomacy, such a call wouldn’t be out of place, especially in light of the crises in Gaza and Ukraine.

Justice and Development Party

This global outlook, Selvi argues, underscores Erdogan’s comprehension that the paradigm shift transcends domestic affairs. It’s a preparation for a more profound transformation. Yet, Selvi cautions against misconceptions; this isn’t change for change’s sake. It’s a paradigm shift built upon the values of the AK Party, encapsulating justice, development, and freedoms for all.

In essence, Selvi portrays the AK Party as soul-searching within its principles. With a name like “Justice and Development Party,” its reference point is intrinsic. Erdogan’s vision, articulated through calls for more democracy and freedoms, sets the frame. From pardoning retired generals to allowing protests by the Saturday Mothers in Taksim after years, Selvi sees a trajectory that may extend to figures like businessman Osman Kavala and others linked to the Gezi protests, ultimately paving the way for a new political landscape.