Abdullah Gnl is elected as the eleventh President of Turkey by the Turkish Parliament, after secularist concerns delayed his initial candidacy.

On August 28, 2007, a crucial turning point in Turkish political history marked the election of Abdullah Gül as the eleventh President of Turkey by the legislative assembly. Gül’s election happened against the backdrop of seismic political shifts in Turkey, as well as simmering secularist concerns that had initially delayed his candidacy. This momentous event and the journey leading up to it can be best understood by delving into the socio-political dynamics that were at play during that period.

Abdullah Gül, a leading figure of the Justice and Development Party (AKP), was not a new name in the Turkish political landscape. Before becoming president, he served as Prime Minister of Turkey, and his work emphasized his commitment to reform, development, and inclusive politics. The AKP’s roots in conservative, Islamic-leaning political movements, contrasting with the Turkish Republic’s traditionally secular stance, made Gül’s candidacy a point of debate and controversy.

Broadly perceived as a moderate and reform-oriented figure, Gül was positioned as the most favourable candidate from his party. However, his Islamic background and the AKP’s dominance in the parliament stirred secularist concerns. Prime among these was the potential erosion of the secular practices that have been central to the Turkish Republic since its conception by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This unrest led to widespread protests, relentlessly questioning the merits of his candidacy and throwing Turkish politics into tumultuous disarray.

However, as the political turbulence unfolded, Gül remained steadfast in his commitments. He highlighted his dedication to democratic principles, standing firm that his tenure would not undermine the secularist sentiments of the Turkish constitution. His words and actions aimed at assuaging the fears of his detractors and ensuring the maintenance of the democratic fabric of Turkey’s governance.

The Turkish Parliament’s eventual election of Gül on August 28, 2007, therefore, marked not merely a change of power, but rather a significant turning point. The event was a testimony to the strength of Turkish democracy, reflecting the complex interplay between the diverse ideologies within the country. The ramifications of Gül’s presidency extended beyond the political sphere, impressing upon the international community Turkey’s evolving image, one that encompassed both traditional and modernist values.

During the tenure that followed, Gül’s presidency was indeed democratically oriented and aimed to bolster Turkey’s position globally. He advocated for progress with a focus on economic growth and development and maintained Turkey’s bid to join the European Union. Moreover, he became the first head of state to visit Armenia, displaying his commitment to ameliorating ties with neighboring nations.

His presidency also witnessed significant trials, like the Gezi Park protests in 2013. Amid these testing times, Gül remained dedicated to facilitating dialogue and fostering understanding between the divided factions of Turkish society.

Overall, the election of Abdullah Gül as the eleventh President of Turkey stands as an emblematic moment in global politics, reflecting not just the resilience of Turkish democracy but also its multifaceted ideological landscape. His term embodied a blend of traditionalism and modernity that serves to illustrate the complexity and dynamism of contemporary Turkish polity.

Abdullah Gül’s immense impact on Turkish political history and the country’s global image cannot be overstated. From navigating secularist concerns that delayed his initial candidacy, to finally ascending to the presidency, his journey reflects the nuances of the political climate at the time and forms an indispensable chapter in the annals of Turkish political history.