Government Party Ousted In Turkish General Election

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27391, 17 May 1950, Page 7

Government Party Ousted In Turkish General Election

NZPA—Copyright Rec. 8 p.m. LONDON. May 16. The Republican People's Party, which had governed Turkey continuously since 1938, was ousted from power in Sunday's elections. The Democratic Party won an' overwhelming victory. The results are not yet complete, but the Democratic Party is already assured of 350 seats out of 487 in the new National Assembly. The Democratic Party’s victory undoubtedly illustrates the national desire for a change after the long rule by a single party, coupled with the desire for -genuine party politics. There has been widespread criticism that the Republican People’s Party has been too long in undisputed power.

The Democratic Party’s main charges against the Government were that it failed to set up a proper postwar economy. It also criticised the growing Budget deficit, lavish State expenditure, and administrative and economic machinery. Its programme includes a balanced Budget by the time Marshall Aid is reduced or ends, and a thorough overhaul of the Administration. But thefe will be no change in Turkish foreign policy. Both parties pledged that Turkey would remain faithful to the Western Powers and would oppose the advance of Communism in Europe. The Prime Minister, Mr Semsettin Gunaltay, and nine Ministers, including the Foreign Minister. Mr Necmettin Sadak, were defeated in the election. In the last Parliament of 465 seats, the Republican People’s Party held 405 seats. Democrats 33, Independent Democrats 13, National Party 10. Independents 4.