Kilicdaroglu after being defeated by Erdogan: Tough Times Ahead for Turkey

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's rival presidential candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu insists he will continue to fight for "true democracy" in Turkey despite losing the second round of elections on Sunday (28/5).

"In this election, the people's desire to change authoritarian rule became clear despite all pressures," Kilicdaroglu said in a speech at his Republican People's Party (CHP) party headquarters in Ankara on Sunday evening after the election's quick count was nearing completion.

Although his speech echoed concessions, Kilicdaroglu did not immediately admit his defeat to Erdogan.

The 74-year-old politician even admitted that he was saddened by today's election results.

"What really makes me sad is that difficult days lie ahead for our country," Kilicdaroglu was quoted as saying by CNN.

"This is the most unfair election period in our history. We do not submit to a climate of fear," he added.

Erdogan won the second round of the Turkish general election (election) held Sunday (5/28).

The voting results showed that the incumbent successfully scooped 52.14 percent of the vote. Meanwhile, Kilicdaroglu pocketed 47.86 percent of the vote.

This victory indicates that Erdogan's reign continues until 2028. The 2023 election is the third time Erdogan has won during his 20 years ruling Turkey.

"We will rule the country for the next five years," Erdogan said in his victory declaration on Sunday night local time.

"With God's permission, we will be worthy of your trust," he continued.

According to Erdogan, this is not his victory, but the victory of all Turkish citizens.

Source: https://www.cnnindonesia.com/internasional/20230529075221-134-955094/kilicdaroglu-usai-keok-oleh-erdogan-masa-sulit-menanti-turki-di-depan