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Erdogan looks to strengthen grip with return to AKP helm

Now that Turkey's ruling party has restored President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as chair, expect a radical shakeup throughout the country in preparation for critical municipal elections to be held in March 2019.
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan makes a speech during the Extraordinary Congress of the ruling AK Party (AKP) in Ankara, Turkey, May 21, 2017. REUTERS/Murad Sezer - RTX36TBI

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reclaimed leadership of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) after three years, further tightening his grip on power.

In a lengthy speech peppered with Quranic references, Erdogan struck a combative note during the special AKP congress held on May 21 to formally re-elect him as the party boss.

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