journalofserviceclimatology.org – Memduh Şevket Esendal, though not as widely known as some of his contemporaries, played a crucial role in the political landscape of Turkey following the 1960 military coup. Ascending to power in 1966, Esendal served as the President of Turkey during a period of political instability, social unrest, and significant constitutional change. His presidency, from 1966 to 1973, was characterized by efforts to stabilize a country grappling with the consequences of military intervention and the challenges of modernizing its economy and political structure.
Early Life and Political Career
Born in 1883, Memduh Şevket Esendal had a distinguished career in public service and diplomacy. Before becoming President, Esendal had served in various governmental roles, notably as a bureaucrat and diplomat. His background in the civil service and his experience working within the republican establishment made him a trusted figure in the post-coup era. He had been involved in the reforms of the 1930s and was an advocate for the modernization of Turkish institutions, especially in the areas of economics and diplomacy.
Esendal’s political alignment and pragmatism in the aftermath of the 1960 coup earned him respect among military leaders and political elites alike. His appointment as president was largely seen as part of an effort by the military regime to bring stability and restore order after the upheaval of the coup.
The Military Coup of 1960 and the Need for Political Transition
The 1960 military coup, which had ousted the government of Prime Minister Adnan Menderes, was a turning point in Turkey’s political history. The coup was driven by concerns over Menderes’ increasingly authoritarian style of governance and his failure to uphold Turkey’s secularist principles, which were central to the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Following the coup, a military junta took control, and a new constitution was drafted in 1961, aiming to strike a balance between civilian rule and military oversight.
However, the military’s role in the political system was still very much in place, and the country faced significant challenges in returning to a stable, functioning democracy. Political polarization, economic problems, and a lack of trust in political parties created an atmosphere of uncertainty. The military, through the National Unity Committee (NUC), needed a leader who could bridge the divide between the military and civilian authorities and implement the reforms necessary to ensure a smooth transition.
Esendal’s Presidency: Stabilizing Turkey After the 1960 Coup
When Memduh Şevket Esendal took office in 1966, Turkey was still grappling with the aftermath of the 1960 coup. While the military had restored order, the civilian government was struggling to assert its authority. Esendal’s role as president was primarily seen as a caretaker position. His tenure was focused on stabilizing the political climate and ensuring that the reforms from the coup were properly implemented.
Restoring Civilian Governance
One of Esendal’s main tasks was to ensure that the newly created constitution and democratic institutions began to function effectively. The 1961 Constitution had introduced important reforms, including a bicameral parliament, the introduction of political pluralism, and the recognition of individual freedoms. However, the military’s influence in the political system remained strong, and there was a lack of full civilian control.
Esendal worked to restore stability by fostering a more inclusive political environment, engaging with different political factions to reduce the influence of military leaders in day-to-day governance. Although the military’s oversight remained significant, Esendal’s leadership helped to create a more predictable and stable political environment, paving the way for the growth of political parties and a more active parliament.
Economic and Social Reforms
In the economic sphere, Esendal’s presidency saw attempts to modernize Turkey’s infrastructure and improve living standards. The Turkish economy faced significant challenges, including inflation, high unemployment, and poverty. Turkey’s dependence on foreign aid, particularly from the United States, continued, but efforts to industrialize and develop the country were ramped up during Esendal’s tenure. These reforms were essential for Turkey’s long-term growth, even if short-term economic difficulties persisted.
At the same time, Esendal had to contend with the increasing social unrest. The 1960s were marked by a rise in political activism, especially among university students and intellectuals who demanded greater freedoms and reforms. Labor strikes, protests, and student movements were common during Esendal’s presidency, reflecting the growing dissatisfaction with the pace of reform and the role of the military in politics.
Challenges of a Divided Political Landscape
Esendal’s time in office was marked by a divided political landscape. The establishment of a multi-party system had allowed for a greater expression of political views, but it also led to a fragmented political environment. The Justice Party (Adalet Partisi), led by Süleyman Demirel, and the Republican People’s Party (Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi), along with smaller left-wing and conservative factions, contributed to an atmosphere of tension and political competition.
Esendal’s role as a figurehead president was also shaped by these divisions, as he often found himself balancing the needs of different political groups while trying to maintain a neutral stance. His presidency was seen by many as one of consolidation rather than radical change, and his actions were largely focused on managing the delicate balance between military influence and civilian political power.
Declining Influence and End of Presidency
As the 1970s approached, Turkey’s political climate grew more volatile. Economic difficulties, rising inflation, and increased social unrest made governance increasingly difficult. Despite Esendal’s efforts to manage the situation, the political landscape continued to shift, with more radical movements on both the left and the right gaining momentum.
In 1973, after seven years in office, Memduh Şevket Esendal’s presidency came to an end. He was succeeded by Fahri Korutürk, marking a continued process of transition toward a more civilian-controlled political structure. Esendal’s departure from office symbolized the end of the immediate post-coup era and the beginning of a new phase in Turkish politics, one that would be characterized by greater political instability and the challenges of balancing secularism, democracy, and military influence.
Legacy
Memduh Şevket Esendal’s presidency, while often viewed as a transitional period, played a vital role in maintaining political stability during a critical time in Turkish history. His leadership helped navigate the difficult years following the 1960 military coup and facilitated the implementation of democratic reforms. Though his presidency was marked by challenges, including economic difficulties and social unrest, Esendal’s role in stabilizing Turkey and ensuring the continuation of constitutional reforms solidified his place in the country’s political legacy.
Esendal’s efforts in fostering civilian governance, modernizing the economy, and managing political divisions during a time of uncertainty have been appreciated in the broader context of Turkey’s development. His tenure remains a pivotal chapter in the country’s history, shaping the trajectory of Turkish democracy and its political evolution.
