The New Face of Turkey’s Opposition

In Istanbul's conservative Uskudar district, a significant political shift occurred with the election of 43-year-old engineer Dedetas as the first female mayor. Her victory in April's elections marked a pivotal moment, as she transitioned the municipality from the ruling AKP to the CHP, reflecting a broader trend of increasing female representation in Turkish politics. Dedetas, who moved to Uskudar for college in 1999, has been recognized for her technocratic approach and consensus-building skills, which contributed to her selection as the CHP candidate. The political landscape in Turkey is changing, particularly with the upcoming national elections expected to be the first without President Erdogan in nearly three decades. Dedetas's election is part of a larger strategy by the CHP to regain influence and potentially secure a future without Erdogan's leadership. Her role is crucial as she supports current Istanbul Mayor Imamoglu, who is seen as a major contender for the presidency. Dedetas's commitment to maintaining Uskudar as a green space for residents highlights her focus on community welfare. Her appointment as manager of Istanbul's maritime public transportation system, the first woman to hold this position, underscores her trailblazing role in a traditionally male-dominated field. The increase in female mayors across Turkey, tripling their numbers, signals a shift in political dynamics and public sentiment. As the CHP aims to build on its recent successes, Dedetas's potential candidacy for Istanbul mayor in the future could further reshape the political landscape, making her a key figure in the post-Erdogan era. The saying that whoever wins Istanbul will eventually win Turkey resonates strongly as the nation approaches a critical juncture in its political history.