Bahçeli Proposes Kurdish and Alevi Vice Presidents, Urges National Unity

July 22, 2025 – Turkey –

Devlet Bahçeli, leader of the far-right Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) and a key ally of President Erdoğan, has confirmed he proposed appointing two vice presidents under the presidential system: one Kurdish and one Alevi. The proposal was made during a closed-door meeting on July 18 as part of what Bahçeli called a “Terror-Free Turkey” initiative aimed at reinforcing national unity and healing longstanding ethnic and sectarian divisions.

In a written statement, Bahçeli stated that Kurds and Alevis are “ours” and that providing them with formal representation aligns with the values of the republic and its commitment to legal equality. He warned against comparing the idea to Lebanon’s confessional system and accused critics of misrepresenting a sincere effort to unify the nation. However, he also criticised the journalist who first reported the proposal, calling them a “so-called journalist” who spreads political gossip, and emphasised that the MHP is ready to defend itself against such tactics.

This proposal marks a sharp departure from the MHP’s usual stance, which has historically opposed minority power-sharing. It arrives amid broader signs of a potential political realignment in Turkey. In recent months, the PKK has shown openness to peace, including a symbolic disarmament ceremony on July 11. These developments have fueled speculation that Bahçeli’s remarks could pave the way for constitutional reforms with Kurdish backing.

Reactions to the proposal were swift. Tuncer Bakırhan, co-chair of the pro-Kurdish DEM Party, challenged the limits of Bahçeli’s vision by asking why the presidency itself should not be open to Kurdish candidates. He argued that Turkey must recognise the right of all identities to lead.

While Bahçeli insists the proposal is about unity, some political observers caution that institutionalising identity-based roles may entrench divisions. Others see it as a calculated move to reposition the ruling bloc ahead of the 2028 elections.

References –

https://bianet.org/haber/bahceli-confirms-proposal-for-alevi-kurdish-vice-presidents-309697

https://newsaboutturkey.com/2025/07/22/bahcelis-call-for-kurdish-and-alevi-vice-presidents-triggers-political-debate/

https://www.turkishminute.com/2025/07/22/turkeys-far-right-leader-sparks-controversy-by-proposing-kurdish-alevi-vice-presidents/