AK Party-Felicity Party alliance rumored in Ankara

As Turkey heads towards early elections on Nov. 1, possible political alliances have come to the fore. Reportedly, the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) is considering an alliance with the Felicity Party (SP) since President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced early parliamentary elections. Political circles claim that there are talks being held through former SP Chairman Recai Kutan to take the pulse of a possible alliance. On the other hand, Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu's statements, which did not deny these claims, were found striking. SP Chairman Mustafa Kamalak and former Grand Unity Party (BBP) Chairman Mustafa Destici created an alliance for the June 7 elections. As the formation of an alliance was impossible legally, BBP candidates participated in elections as part of the SP. The SP received about 2 percent of the vote in the June 7 elections. According to sources in Ankara, the AK Party started unofficial talks with the SP and the BBP regarding an alliance. Reportedly, an alliance is emphasized, as even a considerably small percentage of votes may have an impact on the number of acquired seats. In political circles there is a claim that many figures from the AK Party and the SP have long-lasting friendships with each other and this alliance has been discussed for a long time. Additionally, Kutan is a respected name, and these subjects are being discussed with him.

During a press conference on Tuesday, Davutoğlu responded to a question about an alliance between the AK Party, the SP and the BBP: "The result of the June 7 elections revealed new alliance opportunities between political parties although we have not yet reached a decision. We will evaluate proposals and hold meetings."