'Yes' and 'No' campaign for charter referendum goes online

Celebrities, athletes and TV figures have waded into the debate on charter amendments that will usher in a powerful presidency, turning to social media to publicly announce whether they are for or against the major changes to the country's political system. 

Turkish and Barcelona football player Arda Turan added his name to the pro-government "yes" side, participating in a video series that was launched by a group of athletes and celebrities to encourage the adoption of the charter amendments that will adorn the president with almost unrestricted powers.

In his video, Turan was recorded as responding to former football player and coach Rıdvan Dilmen's call asking whether he is "in" for the amendments in the charter. 

"Our country is going through a very tough period; it is just like the War of Independence. We want a strong Turkey. For a strong Turkey, I am in for 'yes,'" said Dilmen, seeking support from Turan. 

 In response, Turan said "Coach Rıdvan, I have received your call. For a strong Turkey, I am in as well." 

He later directed the same question to another Turkish football player currently playing for Chinese side Beijing Guoan, Burak Yılmaz, asking for his contribution to the campaign.

On Jan. 21, Turkey's parliament approved a constitutional amendment package that will bring drastic changes to Turkey's political system.

The 18-article package, which shifts governance from the current parliamentary system to an executive presidential system, will be put to a referendum on either April 2 or 9 in accordance with the date selected by the Supreme Election Board (YSK) after President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan approves the amendments.

On the "no" side, famous Turkish actress Meltem Cumbul, actor...