Soma mine disaster may undermine Erdogan's leadership

The Soma mine disaster is at the centre of attention of Turkish society and media these days. The tragedy affected not only those who lost their loved ones, but the whole country, including its political system.

The presidential elections are imminent. Turks are going to vote for a president on August 10th and it is believed that Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has no right to remain the head of the cabinet for one more term, will run for the presidency.

However the tragedy in Soma may undermine Erdogan's position in Turkey's politics. Many believe that the government is responsible for the tragedy, since it does not protect miners and allows entrepreneurs to risk workers' lives.

The country's opposition now has a good chance to question Erdogan's leadership and to come to power, experts believe