Turkey votes on stronger presidency

A referendum on constitutional amendments could transform Turkey from a parliamentary democracy into a presidential system, and make Recep Tayyip Erdogan the most powerful president in Turkish history

Under new system, Erdogan could stand in 2019 and 2024 elections, meaning he could potentially stay on as head of state until 2029

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KEY PROPOSED CHANGES TO CONSTITUTION

Post of prime minister scrapped – position of vice president, possibly two or three, created

President will become head of executive as well as head of state, and be able to retain
affiliation to his political party

President given sweeping new powers to draw up budgets, appoint and dismiss government ministers and judges, and enact certain laws by decree

President alone can announce state of emergency and dismiss parliament

Parliament loses right to scrutinise ministers but it can impeach president via majority vote of MPs. Two-thirds majority required to put president on trial

Presidential and parliamentary elections held on same day every five years.
President limited to two terms

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Sources: Wire agencies 

Picture: Getty Images

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