Simple 5-Step Voting Guide for Local Elections
Turkey is gearing up for local elections on Sunday, March 31, 2024. With 61 million 441 thousand 882 registered voters, including 1 million 32 thousand 610 young first-time voters, the country is set to elect new local administrators. Over 206 thousand ballot boxes will be spread across the nation to accommodate the elections, where candidates from 34 political parties will compete.
The elections will determine mayors for 81 provinces, 973 districts, and 390 towns, along with 50 thousand 336 headmen. Furthermore, there will be elections for provincial council membership and municipal council membership.
To ensure a smooth voting process, representative voting booths have been established at the Supreme Electoral Council (YSK) Presidency building. Voters are instructed to cast their votes only at the designated ballot boxes specified in the voter information sheet sent to their address.
There are five key steps that voters need to follow during the voting process. Firstly, voters can find out their assigned voting location either from the voter information sheet or online via the YSK’s website, e-Government portal, YSK’s Voter Inquiry Mobile Application, or the YSK Call Center.
Secondly, voters must bring an identification document with a citizenship number to the polling station. Accepted documents include identity cards, passports, marriage certificates, and professional identity cards for specific professions.
Thirdly, voters are not allowed to enter the voting booth with a mobile phone or any other communication devices. Such items must be left with the ballot box committee.
Fourthly, voters should mark their preference on the ballot paper without placing any additional markings or signatures. It is crucial for the vote to be considered valid. Any request for a new ballot will not be accommodated.
Finally, after casting their vote, voters will sign opposite their name on the ballot box voter list.
Voting hours vary by province, with specific times set for certain regions and penal institutions. Voters must adhere to the designated voting hours to ensure their vote is counted.
As Turkey prepares for these local elections, the electoral process is crucial in determining the future direction and leadership of the nation at the local level.
