Erdoğan Calls for Constitutional Overhaul as Parliament Starts New Session

When Turkey's parliament reconvened after its summer break, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan renewed his push for a new constitution, labeling the initiative a test of the country's democratic health. He criticized the existing charter for retaining symbols of the 1980 coup, despite numerous amendments, and said only a broad parliamentary consensus—at least 400 votes—could avoid a referendum. Because the AKP-led ruling alliance falls short of that threshold, cooperation with opposition forces will be essential.

Erdoğan portrayed the proposed civilian constitution as a means to broaden horizons, reinforce the rule of law, and cement a pluralistic democracy. He urged political parties to act in line with national interests and hoped the coming legislative year would focus on constitutional reform.