Numan Kurtulmuş: A Profile

Numan Kurtulmuş is a prominent Turkish politician and academic, known for his involvement in various political movements and his current role as the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. His career reflects a shift from Islamist-leaning politics towards a more nationalistic and conservative stance, aligning him with the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Parti).

Born in Ünye, Ordu, in 1959, Kurtulmuş received his early education in Istanbul. He pursued higher education in business administration at Istanbul University and later obtained his doctorate in the same field. Before entering politics, he worked as an academic, teaching at Istanbul University and later at Cornell University in the United States. His academic background provided him with a solid understanding of economics and political theory, which he would later leverage in his political career.

Kurtulmuş’s political journey began with his involvement in Islamist-leaning parties. He rose to prominence within the Felicity Party (Saadet Partisi), a continuation of the Welfare Party (Refah Partisi) which was banned in 1998. He eventually became the leader of the Felicity Party in 2003, advocating for a more modern and inclusive interpretation of Islamic values in politics. During his tenure, he attempted to broaden the party’s appeal beyond its traditional base, engaging with diverse segments of Turkish society.

However, disagreements within the Felicity Party regarding its direction and strategy led Kurtulmuş to resign from his leadership position. In 2009, he founded the People’s Voice Party (Halkın Sesi Partisi – HAS Parti), aiming to create a more centrist and inclusive political platform. While HAS Parti achieved some initial momentum, it ultimately struggled to gain significant electoral support.

In 2012, Kurtulmuş made a significant move by merging HAS Parti with the AK Parti, then led by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This merger signaled a shift in Kurtulmuş’s political alignment and marked his entry into the mainstream of Turkish politics. He quickly rose through the ranks of the AK Parti, holding various ministerial positions, including Deputy Prime Minister. In these roles, he focused on issues related to culture, tourism, and the economy.

Throughout his career, Kurtulmuş has been known for his articulate communication skills and his ability to engage in intellectual debates. He has published numerous articles and books on topics ranging from economics to political philosophy. His political positions have evolved over time, reflecting the changing dynamics of Turkish politics and his own personal convictions. Currently, as the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly, he plays a crucial role in the legislative process and in maintaining order and decorum within the parliament. His leadership in this position is essential for the functioning of Turkish democracy.