The new system would, among other things:• Abolish the post of prime minister and transfer executive power to the president. After a failed coup last year, Mr. Erdogan has unleashed a vast purge of thousands of judges, teachers, doctors and other professionals from their jobs contributing to an atmosphere of fear. Should Mr. Erdogan win the referendum, some analysts believe, he may initially try to rebuild his relations with the West, which were severely damaged during the referendum campaign as Mr. Erdogan sought to manufacture diplomatic crises in order to energize his base at home. In the event of a “no” vote, Mr. Erdogan is not likely to let the matter drop. But early elections carry risk for Mr. Erdogan.

Source: New York Times April 16, 2017 03:56 UTC