About
Binali Yıldırım is a Turkish politician who served as the 27th and last prime minister of Turkey from 2016 to 2018. He also held the position of Speaker of the Grand National Assembly from 2018 to 2019. A prominent member of the Justice and Development Party (AKP), he served as the party's leader from 2016 to 2017 and later as its parliamentary leader until 2018. Yıldırım has been a key figure in Turkish politics, contributing to infrastructure development and governance.
Career Timeline
Enters AKP Politics
Became a founding member of the Justice and Development Party (AKP) and entered Turkish politics. Known primarily within party circles and infrastructure sectors.
Minister of Transport Appointed
Appointed Minister of Transport, Maritime Affairs and Communications, overseeing major infrastructure projects. Gained recognition for expanding Turkey's transportation networks.
Becomes Prime Minister of Turkey
Appointed 27th Prime Minister following Ahmet Davutoğlu's resignation, becoming AKP leader. Rose to Turkey's second-highest political position during a tumultuous period.
Constitutional Referendum Campaign
Led government campaign for constitutional changes to create presidential system. His role in this historic transformation kept him prominently in the public eye.
Prime Ministership Abolished
Became last Prime Minister of Turkey as position was abolished with transition to presidential system. Moved to role of Parliament Speaker, losing executive power.
Lost Istanbul Mayoral Election
Defeated in Istanbul mayoral race by opposition candidate Ekrem İmamoğlu, marking a significant political setback. This loss diminished his standing within the AKP and Turkish politics.
Retired from Active Politics
Largely withdrawn from political life after leaving Parliament Speaker role. Remembered for infrastructure achievements but fading from mainstream relevance as Turkish politics moves on.
Related Celebrities
Last updated: February 23, 2026