Populist Surge: Former President's Turkey Trip Sparks Regional Buzz and Domestic Fury

The public's embrace, particularly the viral images of him interacting freely with citizens, offered a potent visual narrative that contrasted sharply with the more restrictive environment of his own country, reinforcing the notion of his populist magnetism across borders. The political meetings, however informal, also ensured the visit was taken seriously by observers, who saw it as an attempt to maintain his political machinery and signal his potential readiness for future political maneuvers, should the opportunity arise.