Parliament adopts changes to constitution enlarging presidential powers

Turkey's parliament moved a step closer late Sunday to approving a constitutional change that would pave the way for a presidential system
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan greets parliamentarians as he arrives at the Turkish parliament to watch a swearing-in ceremony in Ankara.
Monday, 16 January 2017 06:15

Turkey's parliament adopted the last article of a constitutional reform package, enlarging the powers of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. 

The parliament approved the two final sections of the 18-article new constitution after a marathon week of debating that began on January 9 and included sessions that often lasted late into the night.

Another round of voting on the 18-article package is required to confirm the result. If the reform bill secures at least 330 votes in the 550-seat assembly, it will then be put to a national referendum.

Legislators will convene again on Jan. 18 and should conclude voting by Jan. 21.