PERSPECTIVES OF THE PRESIDENTIALISATION OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL SYSTEM OF TURKEY

Abstract

This article examines the needs for reforming the constitutional system of Turkey, created by the Constitution of 1982, as well as the possibilities for implementing these needs. Since numerous relevant stakeholders are included in the informal process of constitutional revision, conditions have been created for the adoption of a document which would aim at consolidating and fostering the civilian and democratic resources, needed for the strengthening of rule of law and liberal constitutionalism in Turkey. However, the ruling political forces have manifested their goal in submitting proposals for making the office of the president more effective and independent from other institutional forces in the country. Steps made towards speeding up the work on revision of the Constitution suggest the strong possibility of introduction of the presidential system, regardless of other constitutional priorities, and despite the fact that important parts of the Turkey’s political system are opposed to it. This article analyzes the proposed changes, particularly by comparing them with the existing constitutional framework, and offers a critical review of the attempt to presidentialize the constitutional system of Turkey, labeling it as manipulative, depleted of any purpose, and providing no answers to the real needs of the constitutional reform.