Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has long been a towering figure in the country’s politics. Since assuming power in 2003, first as Prime Minister and then as President, he has consistently resonated with a significant proportion of the Turkish populace. While some criticise his leadership style, there’s no denying the remarkable popularity he enjoys among many Turks. Three main factors are integral to understanding his appeal: his stance against Islamophobia, his vocal critiques of perceived Western corruption, and his drive to uphold an Islamic state committed to justice.

A defence against Islamophobia

Erdogan’s commitment to standing up against Islamophobia is one aspect that resonates deeply with his supporters. At a time when anti-Muslim sentiment is rapidly rising across the world, Erdogan’s unequivocal stance against Islamophobia makes him a powerful advocate for Muslims in Turkey and beyond. His willingness to speak out against bias, discrimination, and violence against Muslims has solidified his position as a leader who is unafraid to challenge global prejudices.

President Erdogan’s proactive stance in global affairs, particularly in relation to Muslim communities, is another key element contributing to his popularity. He has been vocal about the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar, categorically condemning the persecution of the Rohingya people and calling for international intervention to prevent what he has termed a “genocide.” His government provided humanitarian aid to Rohingya refugees and were proactive in bringing their plight to the international stage.

Similarly, Erdogan voiced serious concerns over the treatment of the Uyghur Muslim minority in China. Despite the close economic ties between Turkey and China, Erdogan has not hesitated to express his dismay over the reports of human rights abuses in Xinjiang, reflecting his willingness to prioritise human rights issues over economic interests.

His outspoken support for the Palestinian cause is also well-known. He has repeatedly criticised Israeli policies towards Palestinians and advocated for the recognition of Palestinian statehood in international forums. This staunch support for Palestine has further enhanced his standing among many Turks and Muslims globally who empathise with the Palestinian cause.

These actions demonstrate Erdogan’s readiness to champion Muslim communities worldwide, standing up against their oppression and rallying international support for their causes. This advocacy has undoubtedly cemented his popularity among his supporters, who see in him a strong and principled leader committed to upholding the rights and dignity of Muslims globally.

Challenging problematic Western powers

Erdogan’s propensity to question and criticise Western influences and powers has

also won him admiration from his supporters. He has often challenged what he perceives as the hegemony of the West and has expressed concerns about corruption and double standards within international organisations and foreign governments. Erdogan’s supporters see in him a leader who doesn’t shy away from standing up for Turkey’s interests on the global stage.

Maintaining a just state, incorporating Islamic values

Perhaps most crucially, Erdogan’s vision of Turkey as a strong, modern, and just Islamic state has galvanised his core base. His leadership has seen significant efforts to marry the principles of Islam with the mechanisms of a democratic state. This vision for Turkey, one that respects its Islamic heritage while striving for justice, development, and prosperity, is central to his appeal. He has often emphasised the need for a justice system that ensures equal rights and fairness for all citizens, regardless of their faith or ethnic background.

To his supporters, Erdogan embodies a leader who is unafraid to challenge the status quo, defend his faith, and advocate for justice, unlike many other Muslim leaders across the globe. These factors have proven pivotal to his enduring popularity among a substantial portion of the Turkish populace.

Yet, as with any leader, he faces ongoing scrutiny and critique both domestically and internationally, testifying to the dynamic and complex nature of Turkish politics.

Both first and second rounds of voting were close calls, and this speaks to the growing need for Erdogan’s Justice And Development Party to address the grassroots concerns of Turkish voters without giving up the overarching principles that have made them a mainstay of Turkish politics since their overwhelming victories in the early 2000s.

Islam places a significant emphasis on the principles of justice, fairness, and the upholding of human rights. The Qur’an explicitly encourages its followers to be just, as in Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:8): “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness…”.

Standing against injustice aligns with the concept of ‘Adl (justice) and ‘Ihsan (doing good), central to Islamic teachings. Leaders are obligated to protect their people’s rights, ensure fair treatment, and actively work to rectify injustices.

Furthermore, Muslim leaders standing against injustice can serve as role models, inspiring others to act justly and fostering societies that uphold these values. They can help to draw attention to injustices that might otherwise go unnoticed, and their efforts can catalyse broader change.

From a more practical perspective, leaders who stand up against injustice help to promote social harmony and stability. Injustices, if left unchecked, can lead to conflict and societal unrest. Leaders who address these issues head-on contribute to peaceful and just societies, aligning with the Islamic vision of a balanced and fair Ummah.

For the sake of stability in the Ummah, it is crucial that Turkey’s leadership seeks & applies justice even on behalf of the detractors who voted against them. In this endeavour, MPACUK would wish Erdogan the best going forward.