AKP Eyes Lowering Voting Threshold, Downvotes ECHR Parliamentary Discussions

LOCAL NEWS

• AKP eyes lowering the 10% voting threshold so that smaller parties may partake in elections.
  • AKP deputy chair also says this will be to the AKP's benefit as it enables its far-right ally, MHP (support ~9%), access to run and bolster the governing alliance's position.
  • Comes as approval ratings for the alliance drop to 46% from above 50% in the last three months. Loss of support coming from economic difficulties and faith in the judiciary
• AKP downvotes Parliamentary discussion on ECHR rulings suggested by Kurdish opposition (HDP).
  • Petition submitted to parliament called for discussion of Kurdish politician Demitras' detention and refusal to implement ECHR rulings to release him
• Turkish Parliamentary speaker reiterates the two-state solution is the only option for Cyprus, saying the federation model has failed to deliver results in the last 50 years. Also says the international community should respect the will of the Turkish Cypriot people
• Divisions along state lines continue around the human rights action plan, supported by pro-govt commentators and criticized by sceptics.
  • Proof remains in the pudding, however, and will need to see some follow-through on promises, such as releases of high-profile prisoners and less speculative imprisonments for insulting Erdogan etc