Erdogan signals leadership changes as AK Party prepares for major congress on Feb. 23

As Türkiye’s ruling AK Party gears up for its major congress on Feb. 23, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to devote significant time this week to shaping the party’s new leadership, according to a report by Türkiye daily.

His signals of change have heightened anticipation within the party.

Key figures tasked with new leadership formation

According to sources, Erdogan has assigned AK Party Deputy Chairman Efkan Ala to oversee the process of selecting new members for the Central Decision and Executive Board (CDEB).

The two officials have reportedly drafted a preliminary list, which they have presented to Erdogan, who is also consulting senior aides on potential appointments.

Demographic, regional balance priority

The new 75-member CDEB will be shaped with considerations for demographic representation, regional balance, and increased inclusion of women and young politicians, according to the reports. Some deputy ministers and parliamentary commission heads are also expected to be included in the list.

Party insiders suggest that while certain veteran members will retain their positions, the number of younger and female members could see a notable increase. Former metropolitan mayors are also being considered for inclusion.

In the AK Party’s extraordinary congress in October 2023, 49 out of 75 CDEB members were replaced.

This time, sources indicate that at least 60% of the existing members may be changed.

Significant leadership departures expected

Erdogan has reportedly informed certain deputy chairpersons that they will not be part of the new administration, hinting at alternative roles for them.

Changes are also expected in the 18-member Central Executive Committee (CEC), with some officials being reassigned to different responsibilities.

Cabinet reshuffle likely post-congress

Discussions within the AK Party suggest that any potential cabinet reshuffle will likely take place after the congress. President Erdogan reportedly has not yet held any formal discussions on the matter with his close advisors.

However, in a recent meeting, he was quoted as saying, “I am not considering appointing cabinet members from the parliament.”

Party sources indicate that this statement significantly reduces the likelihood of appointing current lawmakers as ministers.

Feb. 23, key date

The AK Party’s internal restructuring is set to take shape on Feb. 23, when key party positions, including the CEC, are expected to be determined. The new leadership selections will prioritize individuals who not only align with the party’s vision but also have the energy and commitment to focus on national issues rather than internal political rivalries.

President Erdogan is expected to favor figures who have strong public support, remain engaged with citizens, and actively communicate the party’s policies, rather than those meritocrats who support the party image from outside.

“Those who can connect with the public in markets and streets, counter misinformation, and remain resilient in the face of political challenges are likely to be given prominent roles within the party’s structure,” party sources said.

Reshuffling

Since Erdogan’s post-election remarks, the AK Party has undergone significant restructuring at the provincial and district levels.

According to party sources, approximately 75% of provincial leadership has been replaced, while district-level changes have reached nearly 60%.

Women’s and Youth Branch leaderships have also seen key leadership transitions.

The upcoming Feb. 23 congress will mark the culmination of this overhaul, with Erdogan expected to remain the sole candidate for party chairman.

However, insiders suggest the event will bring a broader and deeper transformation within the party’s executive ranks.

With the AK Party grappling with the fallout from its local election performance, the upcoming Feb. 23 congress is set to be a defining moment for the party.