In a surprising turn of events, Turkey's main opposition party has claimed decisive victories in key cities, including Istanbul and Ankara, in the latest municipal elections. The results represent a significant setback for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who had aimed to regain control of these strategic urban centers less than a year after securing his third term as president.

The secular opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) clinched victories in Istanbul and Ankara, dealing a blow to Erdogan's Justice and Development Party (AKP). Ekrem Imamoglu, the incumbent mayor of Istanbul who first won the city in 2019, secured a second term for the CHP, garnering over 50% of the vote. This defeat marks the first time in Erdogan's 21-year rule that his party has been overtaken at the ballot box across the country.

In Ankara, opposition candidate Mansur Yavas led with a commanding 60% of the vote, declaring victory even before all ballots were counted. Supporters flooded the streets, blocking main thoroughfares, and celebrating with flags and car horns.

The significance of these wins extends beyond Istanbul and Ankara. The CHP also seized control of Bursa and Balikesir, two major cities in the northwest, and retained control of key urban centers such as Izmir, Adana, and the resort city of Antalya.

President Erdogan, addressing supporters in Ankara, acknowledged the unexpected outcome of the elections. However, he portrayed it as a turning point rather than a definitive setback for his party. Erdogan pledged to navigate this moment as an opportunity for renewal and reevaluation.

The results underscore growing discontent with Erdogan's leadership, particularly concerning economic challenges and concerns over democratic principles. Despite the setback, Erdogan remains a dominant force in Turkish politics, but these losses signal a shifting landscape ahead of the next national elections.