Turkish President Erdo?an's poll strategy remarks irk opposition

Prime Minister Ahmet Davuto?lu has submitted the ruling Justice and Development Party?s (AKP) draft election manifesto, which includes the adoption of the presidential system among its priorities, President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an has revealed, expressing his satisfaction with its content.

?I should openly express one point: I discussed these issues with the prime minister last week. Mr. Prime Minister has addressed his opinions about the presidential system in a very detailed manner. I have also read it and expressed my own views as well,? Erdo?an told reporters before his departure to Slovenia March 30.

While Erdo?an?s statement sparked criticism from opposition parties on the grounds the president had confessed he violated the constitutional principle of impartiality, the president argued he never said he read the election manifesto, only a few hours later in a joint press conference with the Slovenian president.

?Mr. Prime Minister shared his views on the presidential system and informed me that he will personally write the part [of the election manifesto] on the presidential system. And he asked my opinions in this regard. I shared my views upon this,? Erdo?an said.

When recalling some opposition parties have proposed sending their election manifestos to the presidency, Erdo?an said, ?I would be pleased to assist them. That would be more accurate, especially if they send me the part on the presidential system. That?s how we can move forward.? 

In an interview last week, Davuto?lu stated he wrote the section on the presidential system in the election manifesto but did not disclose he already had submitted it to Erdo?an. Davuto?lu, who is expected to publicize the AKP?s election manifesto in mid-April, said he was...