Turkey officials signal Erdoğan reelection for 2028

Turkish government officials have signaled that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is expected to run for reelection in 2028. Justice Minister Akın Güllek stated during a meeting in Adana that elections will be held in 2028 to re-elect the president, urging party members to promote the ‘Türkiye Yüzyılı’ goals.

Presidential advisor Mehmet Uçum suggested that April 16, 2028, is a likely date for the elections, noting its symbolic significance as the anniversary of the referendum that transitioned Turkey to a presidential system. Uçum indicated that while the two-term rule exists, a decision by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) to renew elections could legally allow Erdoğan to run for a third term.

Support for another term is growing within the ruling coalition. MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli has expressed support for Erdoğan, framing an earlier election not as ‘premature’ but as a ‘renewal of elections.’ Additionally, AKP parliamentary group deputy chairman Abdulhamit Gül has stated there are no legal or constitutional obstacles to a new candidacy.