Erhürman: Recent Parliamentary Developments Signal Government Crisis, Not Power Struggle

Appearing on Ada TV with host Nupelda Karabuğday, Erhürman highlighted his concerns about the legitimacy of the speaker election process. “Ziya Öztürkler was not elected as Parliamentary Speaker; three votes were declared invalid, and everyone is aware of this fact,” Erhürman stated. He pointed out that the CTP had made multiple proposals advocating for dialogue and adherence to the rule of law, which were disregarded by the “government.” “Forcing an unelected individual into the role of speaker undermines democracy and disregards the rule of law,” he added.

Government's Inability to Manage Growing Issues

Erhürman went on to criticize the current administration for failing to manage the country’s problems. “Population has surged uncontrollably, infrastructure is insufficient, and there are serious issues in education and healthcare. We have been discussing the repercussions of the construction boom for three years,” he said. He also referenced persistent traffic problems and inadequate infrastructure as indicators of government inaction. Erhürman urged the public to demonstrate their resilience in response to these challenges.

Call for Early Elections

The CTP leader reiterated the need for early elections, emphasizing that even coalition members have expressed dissatisfaction. “If the coalition partners themselves complain daily, early elections are inevitable,” Erhürman asserted. He noted that the failure to elect a speaker after 15 rounds due to internal conflicts illustrated the government’s dysfunction. “Those who can’t govern with 29 deputies certainly won’t manage with 27 if the YDP withdraws,” he remarked.

Erhürman affirmed that the CTP has been consistent in advocating for dialogue. “The way to overcome this crisis is by respecting the law and democratic values,” he said.

Cyprus Issue and International Relations

Turning to the Cyprus issue and related international dynamics, Erhürman stressed the importance of recognizing the agency of the Turkish Cypriot community. “The Turkish Cypriot people are not an object; they are a subject,” he declared. Erhürman emphasized that CTP’s objective was not negotiations for the sake of it but to achieve a comprehensive solution.

He concluded by underscoring the need for dialogue and adherence to democratic principles. “No one should expect us to accept an unelected person as if they were legitimately chosen. Common sense lies in dialogue and upholding the rule of law. CTP has always worked, and will continue to work, towards resolving the issues of this country,” he said. He closed by warning those advocating force, “Those who speak of violence should understand that imposing an unelected individual as speaker is beyond any definition of force.”