Known as Türkiye's first weekly political news magazine, Akis was published in Ankara on May 15, 1954, by Metin Toker, and published a total of 706 issues until December 31, 1967. It pursued an active editorial policy, particularly during the May 27, 1960 coup, playing a significant role in the political climate of the period with its critical stance against both the government and the opposition. While claiming to provide impartial news, the magazine faced pressure from the Democrat Party leadership on the press, and Metin Toker and his colleagues were occasionally imprisoned. Its editorial policy was based on an emphasis on impartiality, criticism, and democratization in political journalism. However, towards the end of its publication life, it was discontinued due to its inability to adapt to the economic and technological developments of the time.
Foundation and Editorial Principles
Akis Magazine began its publication in Ankara on May 15, 1954, under the name "AKIS Weekly Current Affairs Magazine" at the initiative of Metin Toker. Founded on the American Time magazine as a model, Akis was planned as an impartial, critical, and serious current affairs magazine. Initially a 36-page magazine with a 20x28 cm format, its first covers featured photographs of Celal Bayar and Adnan Menderes.
The magazine covered topics such as domestic politics, foreign policy, economics, medicine, art, sports, and culture, presenting current events with a human touch. The magazine's definition of "intellectual" was an informed reader with fundamental knowledge of all subjects, who was up-to-date on the world and their own country.
The 1960 Coup and Akis's Editorial Attitude
Akis harshly criticized the Democrat Party in the period leading up to the May 27, 1960 coup. During this period, he particularly criticized the DP's policies on press freedom and democracy. As a result, he was subjected to political pressure due to his alleged closeness to the CHP.
The trial and conviction of Metin Toker, following his articles criticizing then-State Minister Mükerrem Sarol, brought Akis to greater public attention, and the magazine's circulation reached 37,000. The magazine was shut down on April 29, 1960, but resumed publication with the permission of the military government after the May 27 coup.
Aftermath of May 27 and the End of Its Publication
Akis, who adopted a positive stance after the May 27 coup, initially supported the military government's actions. However, following the National Unity Committee's purges of universities and the press, he developed a critical stance, calling for civilianization and democratization.
The Justice Party's electoral successes created disappointment within Akis' circle. Due to economic hardships and the inability to keep pace with technological advancements in the late 1960s, the magazine ceased publication on December 31, 1967.
