Concerns are mounting for Turkey’s ruling party as recent polling data indicates a shift in public opinion regarding ongoing legal cases and the country’s economic situation. The findings suggest growing skepticism towards the government’s handling of these key issues.
According to a recent survey, the perception that cases brought against Istanbul’s Metropolitan Municipality are politically motivated has increased. In March 2026, 55.2% of respondents believed the cases were politically driven, a figure that rose to 57.7% in April 2026. Conversely, the number of those who view the cases as legitimate has declined, falling to 30.1%.
A significant 55.7% of those surveyed believe the primary goal of the legal actions is to prevent Ekrem İmamoğlu from running for office. This perception underscores a growing distrust in the impartiality of the judicial process.
Public confidence in the judiciary has also seen a marked decline. The percentage of respondents expressing a lack of trust in the court system rose dramatically from 62.4% in April 2025 to 71.6% in April 2026. This erosion of trust comes amid ongoing discussions about the fairness and independence of Turkey’s legal institutions.
The data highlights a challenging environment for the government as it navigates a period marked by both political and economic headwinds. The shift in public sentiment could have significant implications for future elections and the overall stability of the political landscape.
