Erdogan to Forgive Debt of Turks in Pre-Election Voter Giveaway

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his ruling AK Party will propose a bill to relieve the debt burden of millions of people, a move aimed at strengthening his voter base ahead of this year’s elections.

“We are forgiving debt not exceeding 2,000 liras ($106), predating to Dec. 31, 2022, owed to tax offices,” Erdogan said in a televised address after a cabinet meeting Monday. He said the bill would extend to some traffic penalties and fines owed to public institutions.

The proposal on debt relief could be the president’s costliest pre-election giveaway yet, as he makes sure government support …