Does Erdoğan want Mansur Yavaş as a rival?

There are rumors that Erdoğan prefers Mansur Yavaş as his opponent in the upcoming presidential election. Following the CHP’s decision to hold a primary election to determine its presidential candidate, discussions have intensified over who will lead the opposition. After Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu entered the primary as the sole candidate, multiple investigations were launched against him. Additionally, allegations that his academic credentials may be revoked have gained traction in the public sphere. Nuray Babacan from Nefes reported that Erdoğan seeks to replace İmamoğlu with Mansur Yavaş, the mayor of Ankara Metropolitan Municipality. Citing insider sources, Babacan suggested that the opposition is being pushed toward a fragmented electoral strategy. Explaining why Erdoğan would prefer Yavaş over İmamoğlu, AKP officials outlined three key reasons:

1. İmamoğlu’s strong connection with the public poses a significant risk to Erdoğan.
2. Mansur Yavaş would be an easier opponent to challenge in an election campaign.
3. Yavaş may struggle to appeal to the entire electorate. Given his already distant stance toward the Kurdish population, he is unlikely to secure their support, particularly if the Kurdish peace process progresses. This would make him a weaker rival.