Clear Messages from President Erdoğan on Trustee and Fight Against Terrorism
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan met with journalists after his visits to Kyrgyzstan and Hungary and made important statements on Turkey’s anti-terrorism policies. Referring to terror-related developments especially in local governments, Erdoğan praised the stance of the judiciary over the case of Ahmet Özer, who was dismissed from office, and gave harsh messages to the opposition.
Full Support to the Judiciary
Commenting on the dismissal of Ahmet Özer on charges of “being a member of an armed terrorist organization”, President Erdoğan stated that such situations will not be allowed to undermine public trust. Erdoğan said, “We said it clearly during the election campaign: Those who deserve to hold office will hold office, those who do not deserve to hold office and abuse their office will pay the price,” Erdoğan said. Congratulating the determination of the judiciary, attorneys general and prosecutors in the fight against terrorism, the President emphasized that the judiciary’s steadfast stance in this process has increased public confidence.
“Terrorism and Democracy cannot coexist”
Erdoğan stated that it is unacceptable for elected officials to cooperate with terrorism and said, “We have always stated that terrorism and democracy, terrorism and civil politics cannot be carried on the same seat.” Accordingly, local governments will play a more effective role in the fight against terrorism, Erdoğan said, adding that this process cannot be changed under pressure from Qandil.
Harsh Criticism to the Opposition
Describing the opposition’s attempts to put pressure on the judiciary to fulfill its duties as “thuggery”, President Erdoğan said, “We protect our political courtesy to the end, but we will not tolerate the politics of threats.” Stating that threats against the judiciary are unacceptable, Erdoğan reiterated that Turkey will adhere to the rule of law and the fight against terrorism will continue with determination.
Stricter Control in Local Governments
Erdoğan said that the terrorist links detected especially in Mardin, Batman, Halfeti and Esenyurt municipalities necessitated a stricter supervision of local governments. “Whoever abuses their office will pay the price,” the President said, emphasizing the rule of law.
Conclusion: No Compromise in the Fight against Terrorism
President Erdoğan’s statements have once again demonstrated Turkey’s determination in the fight against terrorism. This policy, which is based on public security and the rule of law, is supported by the resilient stance of the judiciary. Erdoğan’s criticism of the opposition underlines that threats against the judiciary will not be tolerated.
