Turkey News

Erdogan Faces Second Round in Presidency Race

ISTANBUL, March 22 (Reuters) - Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan faces a second round in his bid for re-election next month after failing to secure an outright majority in Sunday's presidential election, according to unofficial results from Turkey's state-run Anadolu news agency.

Erdogan, who has been in power for 15 years, won 43 percent of the vote, while his main challenger, Muharrem Ince, won 31 percent, the agency said. A second round of voting is scheduled for July 8.

The results are a blow to Erdogan, who had hoped to win outright in the first round and avoid a runoff. The outcome is likely to increase uncertainty in Turkey, which has been plagued by political and economic turmoil in recent years.

Ince, a former physics teacher, has campaigned on a promise to restore democracy and the rule of law in Turkey. He has also pledged to improve the economy and to mend relations with Turkey's Western allies.

The election campaign has been marked by bitter rhetoric and personal attacks between Erdogan and his opponents. Erdogan has accused Ince of being a terrorist supporter, while Ince has accused Erdogan of being a dictator.

The outcome of the election is likely to have a significant impact on Turkey's future. If Erdogan wins a second round, he will have the power to further consolidate his authority and to continue his crackdown on dissent.