The National quotes Rafik Hariri Center Nonresident Fellow Aaron Stein on President Erdogan’s persistent political clout, despite the outcome of the parliamentary elections which reduced the potential for a stronger presidency:

But while Sunday’s defeat torpedoed his ambitions for an enhanced presidency, it will only elevate the clout of Mr. Erdogan’s office as a power broker for a ruling coalition.

“Erdogan retains considerable flexibility, despite the AKP’s failure to win more than 330 seats,” said Aaron Stein, an Atlantic Council fellow. “He will certainly be in charge of the coalition discussion and is of primary importance for determining how and under what circumstances a possible minority coalition will take shape.”

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