Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared victory in Sunday’s presidential election and said his ruling party-led alliance had won an overall majority in parliament.
“The unofficial results of the elections have become clear. According to these… I have been entrusted by the nation with the task and duties of the presidency,” Erdogan said at his Istanbul residence, adding that the alliance led by his Justice and Development Party (AKP) had won the majority in parliament.
Turkish voters for the first time cast ballots for both president and parliament in the snap polls, with Erdogan looking for a first round knockout and an overall majority for his ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) to extend his 15-year grip on power.
Erdogan was at 52.8 percent with 95.1 percent of the votes counted, broadcasters said. Muharrem Ince, the main opposition’s presidential candidate, stood at about 30 percent nationwide, television channels said. If no candidate won more than 50 percent, a second round run-off would be held in July.