Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made his second public appearance after falling ill earlier this week, which led to the cancellation of his election campaign events. Erdogan, who had cited “stomach flu” as the reason for his illness, appeared online for his first appearance on Thursday, which was joined by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders marked the inaugural loading of fuel at a nuclear power plant being built by Russia in Turkey’s south.
The President’s second appearance was also online, where he inaugurated a bridge in the southern province of Adana. He looked more energetic than he did on Thursday, which has eased concerns about his health ahead of the upcoming elections on May 14. Erdogan is preparing to attend a major rally in the capital city of Ankara in person on Sunday.
The 69-year-old President is seeking re-election, and polls suggest that the contest remains tight. His main rival in the vote is Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the 74-year-old chairman of the main opposition Republican People’s Party, who represents a six-party alliance.
Erdogan's health has been a topic of discussion among the people of Turkey, as he has been hospitalised several times in the past. However, his supporters have expressed confidence that he will recover and continue to lead the country. Erdogan's appearance on Friday has put to rest some of the concerns about his health, and many are looking forward to seeing him in person at the upcoming rally.