The Republican People’s Party emerged victorious in the municipal elections held yesterday, defeating the ruling Justice and Development Party of Turkey, which is led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Given that it is the party’s first loss in 20 years, this defeat is noteworthy.

After receiving almost 95% of the votes, the Republican People’s Party received 37.3% of the vote, followed by the Justice and Development Party with 35.7%, according to unofficial preliminary data.

After the opposition won the municipal elections, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made his first public statement, calling the outcome a “turning point” and pledging to assess his party’s performance. Erdogan reaffirmed his party’s adherence to democracy and its respect for the results of the voting booths.

Furthermore, he stated that rather than being the conclusion of the process, these elections represent a turning point.