Following the re-election of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as President of Turkey, thousands of followers of the “Reis” (chief) took to the streets in noisy celebration, while deafening opponents with thunderous firecrackers. Erdoğan, a devout Muslim, managed once again to prevail at the polls, obtaining 52.2% of the votes in the second round of the presidential elections, according to the final results. His social democratic rival, Kemal Kiliçdaroglu, was unable to fulfill his promise to bring a democratic spring and obtained 47.8% of the votes.
Although the official announcement had not yet been made, the president’s name resounded in the streets of Istanbul, where thousands of supporters gathered in front of the AKP party headquarters and his official residence to celebrate the victory. Erdoğan proclaimed his triumph from the roof of a bus three hours after the polls closed, to the joy of his supporters.
Among the crowd were women and children excited to see the “only guide” re-elected for five years. Supporters expressed satisfaction with Erdoğan’s leadership and achievements, highlighting his influence both in Turkey and globally. Some highlighted advances in the defense industry and the creation of the Togg electric car as examples of his success.
While Erdoğan supporters celebrated in several cities, opponents showed a sour mood in Istanbul and at some polling stations where they deployed observers. Despite initial demoralization, opposition members expressed their determination to keep working and not lose hope. While acknowledging Erdoğan’s long tenure in power, they expressed their commitment to continue their work and seek change in the future.
It is important to note that this paraphrase does not reflect any opinion of my own and is based on information provided in the original text.