Turkish Constitutional Court begins presidential election process

The election process for the Presidency of the Constitutional Court (AYM) has officially commenced following the upcoming expiration of Kadir Özkaya's term. Due to regulations limiting court members to a 12-year term, Özkaya's tenure will conclude on December 22, 2026.

According to the court's internal regulations, the selection process begins two months prior to the end of the current president's term. While Özkaya is ineligible to run for re-election due to the term limits, he is permitted to cast a vote. The election will be conducted by the General Assembly, where a candidate must secure a simple majority of at least 8 votes from the 15 members to be elected for a four-year term.

As the current president, Özkaya will manage the election proceedings, including notifying members of the specific time and location of the vote at least seven days in advance. Among the potential candidates being monitored by observers is Vice President İrfan Fidan.