PM expresses condolences to Armenians
Last week, Turkey witnessed two important developments, one of which was positive while the other was thought-provoking. Indeed, these issues gave us a brief summary about the recent conflicts and tensions in Turkey. The first development was Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's unprecedented statement of condolence to the Armenians released on the anniversary of the 1915 incidents. For the first time, a leader of the Turkish government refused the brutal discourse based on lies and denials, indifferent to people's sufferings and with which nobody was comfortable. Erdoğan gave a humanistic message embracing the facts, opening new doors for discussion and recognizing other people's sorrow as his own agony.The message bears a world-wide significance.This was the first time that Turkey faced the taboo of the 1915 Armenian incidents on an official level. We neither disregard the shame of humanity with a lump in our throats nor justify the incidents with the "historical conditions" any longer. This step will change the image of Turkey. It will also weaken the enemy circles and lead Turkey to progress as a country which stands behind its identity and history. I believe Erdoğan's message was the dream of Hrant Dink. He would support this step with great enthusiasm if he was alive. On the other hand, there was another development seen the day after which was the antithesis of the message depicting the "new Turkey" and manifesting its attempt to leave behind the dark past. Haşim Kılıç's political outburstConstitutional Court President (AYM) Haşim Kılıç gave a speech during a ceremony marking the court's anniversary. He spoke in such a way that he did not look like a member of the judiciary, but rather a politician.He pushed the limits of courtesy with his statements about "regulating" the attitudes of politicians. Kılıç reminded us of the importance of a constitutional state and gave warnings related to the parallel state, however they were lost during his critical political talk. I assume the AYM is not a place to shape political life in Turkey or look down on politics.Unfortunately, the higher judicial bodies have considered themselves the real guardians of Turkey, standing with the military for many years. Haşim Kılıç is the person who previously voiced his objection to the current system. AYM was known to be loyal to democracy and respect different religions and religious expressions. Kılıç's speech created a disappointment beyond the expectations.I believe his message was an emotional reflection that emerged after the government's harsh criticisms toward the AYM. Presumably, Kılıç was uncomfortable with Erdoğan's criticism toward the court's decision on Twitter.He might not have gone too far which has put his position in a difficult situation.As mentioned before, Kılıç did not behave as a judge who evaluates the bills' relevance with the constitution, but a main opposition leader. I am afraid that his discourse struck a sour note on his objectivity. From now on, the upcoming decisions of the Constitutional Court will be discussed under political shadows.
Last Update: April 28, 2014 20:28