PM Üstel: Press Freedom is Not Freedom to Insult

Üstel noted that while differing opinions are natural, they should not lead to conflict or undermine humanitarian values. He underscored that freedom is one of society's indispensable values but clarified that it does not entail the freedom to attack or insult others as one pleases.

In a written statement, Üstel expressed that media, including social media, reflects the quality of freedom within a society, emphasizing, "Media freedom or press freedom does not equate to freedom to lie and insult."

ÜSTEL EMPHASIZES STABILITY!

Üstel pointed out the emotional significance with which the 50th anniversary of the Peace and Freedom Day is remembered, recalling the threats faced and freedoms denied by fanatic Greeks during the period from 1963 to 1974 when Turkish Cypriot values were under siege.

"As the leader of the National Unity Party and Prime Minister, I constantly emphasize the importance of stability," Üstel stated. He emphasized that stability is not an empty phrase but a commitment to laying stronger foundations each passing day. Stability means ensuring that the future of our youth lies within these lands, respecting labor, and fostering trust in the business world and among investors.

"PRESENTING LIES AND INSULTS AS 'FREEDOM' DAMAGES FREEDOM"

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, ahead of the July 20th Peace and Freedom Day, evaluated the country's environment of peace and freedom, emphasizing that presenting lies and insults as 'freedom' harms the concept of freedom. He stated:

"Personally, I have always approached such attacks with Turkish Cypriot tolerance. Not responding does not mean we have nothing to say. If you pay a little attention, you will see that those serving in all institutions of the TRNC, judges, and almost all political figures, regardless of government or opposition, are under threat and attack."

He concluded with a call for pluralism and a rejection of petty quarrels, affirming that protecting freedom from its adversaries is everyone's responsibility.