Stalling Economy Hurts Turkey's AK Party Ahead of Election

For the first time since coming to power in 2002, the AKP is heading into an election under fire over the economy, thanks to stalling growth, stubbornly high unemployment and worrying levels of household debt. That has given the opposition a new line of attack and highlights the difficulties a weakened AKP will face after the June 7 polls, when it will need to bring in overdue reforms to cut personal and corporate debt, boost savings and increase productivity. Investors think the AKP will win just enough seats to remain in power as a single-party government and keep its economic management team intact, although one closely watched poll has predicted it could be forced to form a coalition. It is almost certain to fall far short of the super majority required to change the constitution and give its founder, President Tayyip Erdogan, the broader powers he wants.