In a confusing move, the Turkish Election Board ordered 5,000 tons of ballot papers to be delivered in 8 months. The nearest election, unless there is an early election, is 4 years from now.

The Supreme Election Board has placed an order. Is an early election coming? The Supreme Election Board (YSK) has started preparations for the election. The State Supply Office has published an advertisement to purchase 2-item watermarked ballot papers and envelope paper needed by the Supreme Election Board (YSK). According to the advertisement, the last bid date was announced as October 21, 2024. The State Supply Office has published an advertisement to purchase 2-item watermarked ballot papers and envelope paper needed by the Supreme Election Board (YSK). According to the advertisement, the last bid date was announced as October 21, 2024.

According to the news by Mustafa Çakır from Cumhuriyet; a temporary guarantee valid until May 30, 2025 in TL will be given in an amount to be determined by the bidders, not less than 3 percent of the bid price. This purchase will be made through “direct procurement” in accordance with Article 22 of the Public Procurement Law.

The materials to be purchased were also listed in the announcement on the State Supply Office’s website. Accordingly, a total of 4,000 tons of watermarked ballot paper and 1,000 tons of watermarked ballot envelope paper will be purchased. The total amount to be purchased is 5,000 tons and the delivery period is set at 8 months. The fact that the Supreme Election Council started election preparations this early was interpreted as a sign that an early election would be held.

I assume it’s because there’s only going to be one name on the ballot next time?

Smart move. When you have high inflation, it pays to buy non-perishable goods that you know you will need, as early as possible. In 4 years they would need to pay more for the same paper.