Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been sworn in as Turkey’s new president, amid occasionally rowdy scenes in a parliamentary ceremony in Ankara.<br /><br />It comes two weeks after his victory in the first round of the presidential vote.<br /><br />Until now the position has been largely that of a ceremonial figurehead. Erdogan, previously prime minister, wants to change the constitution to boost presidential powers, making it clear he intends very much to remain in charge.<br /><br />The applause was not unanimous. The main opposition leader boycotted the ceremony, accusing Erdogan of acting above the law.<br /><br />Another MP asked the speaker for a debate. When the request was refused it sparked anger.<br /><br />A rule book was thrown at the speaker. Opposition MPs then left the chamber in protest at Erdogan’s refusal to step down as prime minister following his election as president.<br /><br />Over the past decade Turkey has experienced huge economic growth and played an increasingly influential role in the Middle East.<br /><br />But Erdogan’s opponents fear the new president is seeking to impose his own style on Turkey in an increasingly authoritarian manner.<br /><br />Thursday also sees the former foreign minister Ahmet Davutoglu officially take the reins as prime minister. The new government is due to be revealed on Friday.
