Özet:

In this study, the mayoral candidacy process in Turkey will be analyzed in the context of representative democracy practices and will be discussed whether it has evolved from representative democracy to democratur. Mayors, the most important body of municipalities responsible for providing local services, are elected by General Elections of Local Administrations held every five years. Although the criteria for being a representative in local government units are quite broad in the election legislation, it is not possible to the same extent in practice. It is possible to participate in the elections as a candidate of political parties or as an independent candidate. In addition to the difficulty of being elected as an independent candidate for various reasons, there are also various stages in becoming a candidate from political parties, such as candidate candidacy and approval of the party's head management. The effective power of party headquarters in candidate selection processes and their authority to have the final say in determining mayoral candidates may result for citizens choosing one of the options presented by them. In determining mayoral candidates, the process must be carried out in accordance with transparent, participatory and democratic methods. On the contrary, having the people choose one of the pre-chosen candidates, instead of the people asking their opinions at all stages, will lead to a process that is described as democratur. Mayors who run and win the elections as mayors chosen by their party will have serious problems if their party's policies conflict with the citizens' expectations and demands. It will weaken the understanding of representative democracy and trust in parties and elections.

Anahtar Kelimeler: