In brief
The attempted coup in 2016 marked a significant turning point for Turkey, showing how the rivalry between Erdogan and his former ally, Gulen, spiraled into a widespread crackdown and a consolidation of power.
The article text: The downfall of a strategic partnership has shaped the political landscape of Turkey. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ascent to power was significantly bolstered by his alliance with Fethullah Gulen, a notable preacher whose recent death has reignited discussions about their historical bond and subsequent conflicts. Gulen, who commanded a devoted following among educated urban Turks, initially helped facilitate Erdogan's governance, effectively populating critical institutions such as the media, police, and judiciary with his supporters.During the early years of Erdogan’s prime ministership, Gulen’s disciples were the enthusiastic ambassadors of the government, both domestically and internationally. However, as Erdogan's power grew, so did his apprehension towards Gulen’s influence, leading to disagreements on various policies. The historical rift began to widen during the 2013 corruption scandal, where Gulenist prosecutors targeted Erdogan's inner circle, including family members.Reacting strongly, Erdogan accused Gulen of orchestrating a "judicial coup," leading to a series of retaliatory measures against Gulen's media operations and educational establishments. The turning point occurred in July 2016 during the military coup attempt linked to Gulen-aligning factions. Erdogan's decisive response, invoking public support and securing loyalty from military leaders, ultimately resulted in the arrest of coup participants.This moment not only marked a pivotal event in Turkish history but also set the stage for Erdogan's increasing consolidation of power, as he transitioned from prime minister to an empowered president, initiating widespread purges of alleged Gulen affiliates and critics across various sectors, further steering Turkey towards authoritarianism.
