The Turkish general election is days away, and Turkish voters who live in London can vote this weekend following a 2012 regulation that permits citizens to vote in the country in which they reside.
With campaigning reaching a peak, it seems likely that the ruling Justice and Development party (AKP) will win. However, the supermajority required may elude President Erdogan.
The pro-Kurdish People’s Democratic Party (HDP) can secure representation in a new parliament, marking a significant shift in Turkish politics by moving away from the era of AKP single-party governments.
Commenting on the elections, Jean Lambert, London’s Green MEP said:
‘The HDP are a party with an ecological, pro-democracy, equality driven agenda. They are also clear about wanting autonomy and peace for the Kurds. Their representation is important.’
International coordinator of the Green Party of England and Wales, Derek Wall concluded:
‘They are an inspiration. Success for the HDP would be a win for the Kurds, the LGBT community and the Turkish Greens who are part of the HDP. More should be done to promote their message. Turkish voters who want to influence their country’s future can vote in the General Election this weekend at Olympia.’
Turkey has the world’s highest electoral threshold, requiring a 10% vote share to achieve representation. The general election takes place on the 7th of June.