President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan emphasized the crucial role of women in the success of Turkiye’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) during a speech at the party’s women’s branch congress on February 2, 2025, in Istanbul.
As the AK Party undergoes a series of provincial congresses aimed at reshuffling its leadership following disappointing local election results, Erdoğan praised the women’s branch for its pivotal contribution to the party’s victories in previous elections.
In front of a large crowd of enthusiastic female supporters, Erdoğan underscored that a political movement excluding women is destined for failure.
He explained, “It is through women who win the hearts of families from male members to children that we succeed. Our party has always prioritized women and youth, as they are the foundation of the family and society.”
Erdoğan’s remarks came as the AK Party works through a reshuffling process after experiencing unexpected setbacks in the 2024 municipal elections, where it lost significant cities like Ankara and Istanbul to the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP).
The party is preparing for a “Grand Congress” on February 23, 2025, which will conclude the reshuffling and introduce new leaders with a renewed political vision.
The president also expressed confidence in the party’s future, stating, “Women are conquerors and they can carry our party to the place it deserves to be. We hope to reach 50% of the vote again in the 2028 elections.”
Erdoğan praised the success of the AK Party’s women’s and youth branches, claiming that other parties should look to them as examples.
In his speech, Erdoğan also took aim at the opposition, particularly the CHP, accusing them of being disconnected from the public and focusing on personal agendas rather than the nation’s needs.
He criticized CHP leader Özgür Özel and former leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, drawing a comparison to a circus for their internal struggles and lack of clear direction.
Furthermore, Erdoğan addressed the importance of family values and the challenges facing women today.
He warned against global trends that seek to erase gender distinctions, asserting that such movements are part of a “genderless” agenda imposed by imperialist forces.
He highlighted that the Turkish government is committed to supporting families, especially in light of declining marriage rates and increasing divorces.
As part of efforts to strengthen families, the president reiterated Turkiye’s commitment to policies that support married couples and parents, including the expansion of interest-free loans for newlyweds and increased birth assistance.
Erdoğan has declared 2025 as the “Year of the Family” and continues to encourage young people to have more children to combat demographic challenges in the future.
With a series of reforms aimed at revitalizing the AK Party and promoting family values, Erdoğan’s leadership remains focused on maintaining political dominance and addressing the societal issues affecting Turkiye’s future.
