Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, the joint presidential candidate of the Republican People's Party (CHP) and the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), has called for a "democratic and civilized" race, following the nomination of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan for the upcoming presidential election, Hurriyet Daily News reported.
"Turkey should have alternatives and the Turkish nation should make its choice accordingly," Ihsanoglu told reporters after his visit to the Independent Turkey Party (BTP) on July 1.
He added that he believed "the Turkish people will be on the side of peace."
BTP leader Haydar Bash said they were in agreement with the CHP that the separation of powers is vital for the country.