Erdogan's bold moves towards the 2023 elections: strategy or risk?

As Turkey prepares for the upcoming elections in 2023, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made bold moves, ostensibly to consolidate his party's position and preserve power. However, the question that arises is whether these moves are part of a strategic plan or whether they represent significant risks. First, Erdogan consolidated his power within the party by purging dissidents and promoting loyalists. This move is not new as it is known that Erdogan removes any person seen as a threat to his authority. However, ahead of the election, the timing of these purges raises concerns about the effectiveness of the opposition. Second, the president has made attempts to restrict social media platforms, which is seen as an attempt to silence his critics. The passage of a new social media law, which requires social media companies to set up local offices and store user data inside Turkey, gives Erdogan more control over online speech. This move was criticized by human rights organizations and was seen as a means to reduce freedom of expression. Thirdly, Erdogan made foreign policy moves aimed at strengthening Turkey's position in the world. He has shown a willingness to confront other countries, including Greece and France, and has pursued partnerships with countries such as Azerbaijan and Qatar. The president has also sought a friendlier relationship with Russia, a move that has raised concerns about Turkey's standing within NATO. While these moves may indicate a strategic plan, they also pose significant risks. Erdogan's consolidation of power could weaken party unity and alienate those who perceived as 'disloyal'. It could also result in a weaker opposition, which could lead to uncontested re-elections. The attempt to restrict social media could also cause a backlash from the population, with many people seeing it as an infringement on their freedom of expression. Additionally, the position of Turkey within NATO may be weakened if it continues to pursue partnerships with countries that do not share NATO's values. Thus, Erdogan's bold moves present both opportunities and risks. While they may help consolidate power and strengthen Turkey's position in the world, they may Also lead to a weakened opposition, a decrease in freedoms at home and a weakening of the country's position within NATO. As the 2023 elections approach, it remains to be seen whether these moves will pay off or backfire.