Correspondent in Istanbul
A joyful hubbub floods the AKP campaign office, in the heart of the Istanbul district of Halicioglu, in the district of Beyoglu. Behind plasterboard tables gathered in a large U, neighbors, cousins and party comrades fill tote bags with “goodies” intended for the women of the neighborhood: tray, cell phone case, moisturizing cream and orange scarf embroidered with the slogan
“Istanbul again”
, echoing President Erdogan's obsession with getting his hands back on his beloved city.
“This year, I am sure, we will celebrate the end of Ramadan doubly
,” coos Sahila Demirer. Wearing a red scarf over a khaki jacket, the head of the women's section of the AKP (Justice and Prosperity Party) for the entire Istanbul metropolitan area gives her final instructions a few days before the municipal elections on March 31:
" Take advantage of door-to-door visits to take stock of current dysfunctions: fewer buses, more traffic jams, etc.
This article is reserved for subscribers. You have 90% left to discover.
Flash sale
€4.49/month for 12 months
I ENJOY IT
Already subscribed? Log in