Erdogan seeks a new Turkish sultanate
In June 7 election, the Kurdish People’s Democratic Party could play the role of spoiler
May 28, 2015 2:00AM ET
by Stephen Kinzer @stephenkinzer
Sultans ruled the Turks for 470 years until Kemal Ataturk proclaimed a republic in 1923. “Away with dreams and shadows!” he exulted. “I have banished the rottenness of the Ottoman Empire!”
A crucial election on June 7 may determine whether Turkey falls back under a form of sultanic rule, led by a supreme leader empowered to control every aspect of national life.
More:Erdogan Seeks a New Turkish Sultanate | Al Jazeera America