​Davutoglu Cabinet and the government program: Few new names, fewer new policies

TURKEY - In Brief 31 Aug 2014 by Atilla Yesilada

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PM-designate Prof Davutoglu broke a speed record by using only 16 hours to form the 62nd government of Turkey. Adding to speed records, the program of the new government will be read today and it will be smoothly confirmed within 3 days. There are only four new names in the 62nd government, which means few new policies will be introduced until after the June 2015 general elections. Nevertheless, it is worth reviewing a few key positions and the high signal value of some personnel. I also summarize the expected highlights of the program and key short-term challenges to Davutoglu. A comprehensive analysis of these challenges and risk-benefit analysis will be provided in our upcoming Monthly, which should be finished during the week. Erdogan signals this is HIS cabinet: Davutoglu promised that he will not be “ a care-taker” for Erdogan, but it’s hard to believe that he didn't have a few pals whom he didn’t want to bring to the new Cabinet. The fact that he was denied even this minor luxury strengthens my view that Erdogan intends to keep a very close tap on policy-making. The dearth of new personnel also suggests that AKP doesn’t intend to initiate new policies until after the general elections. Two new names to represent Erdogan in weekly Cabinet meetings: Two Vice Premier spots went to Mr. Numan Kurtulmus, and Mr. Yalcin Akdogan. Kurtulmus, a transplant from the smaller Islamist party, Saadet, was in charge of economic affairs committee of the party. Yalcin Akdogan is one of the closest advisors of Erdogan and an architect for many domestic polices. Contrary to some reporting Kurtulmus will not have an economics job in the new Cabinet. Along with Akdogan, his remit will...