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President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered strong remarks at the Justice and Development Party's (AK Party) Expanded Provincial Chairs Meeting in Ankara, vowing to put an end to the legacy of Türkiye’s coup-era constitution and highlighting the government’s efforts to strengthen democracy and national unity.
In his speech, Erdogan emphasized that Türkiye had closed the chapter on military coups, referring to the failed July 15, 2016, coup attempt and the resistance shown by the public. "Just as we confronted the coup plotters on July 15 and reinforced the will of the nation, we will also free this nation from the shame of the coup-era constitution," he said.
Erdogan began his address by praising former Prime Minister Adnan Menderes and his colleagues, who ended the ban on the call to prayer in Turkish, reopened religious schools (imam hatips), and reversed oppressive policies of the early republic.
He pointed to the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) as the political representative of authoritarianism both in the past and present. "It was the CHP leader who, just a month before the 1960 coup, invited the military to intervene," Erdogan claimed, arguing that the real blow on May 27 was struck not only against Menderes' government but also against the nation’s democratic hopes.
Erdogan labeled the CHP mindset as the driving force behind coups throughout Türkiye’s history. "Every coup and insurrection was a different manifestation of the same mentality. The actors and eras may have changed, but the arrogance has remained constant," he said.
He emphasized that the July 15 resistance not only saved Turkish democracy but also honored the legacy of Menderes and his colleagues. "On this 65th anniversary of the May 27 coup, we once again remember Menderes and his colleagues with gratitude. May they rest in peace."
Erdogan reiterated his commitment to replacing the current constitution, which dates back to the 1980 military coup. "The 1982 constitution still bears the marks of the coup period. A new, civilian constitution will give us the opportunity to shed the dead weight of the past," he stated.
He noted that 10 legal experts have already been appointed to begin drafting the new constitution, expressing hope that the efforts would proceed in cooperation with the opposition. "As the People’s Alliance, we aim to build a consensus with other parties around a common foundation," he added.
Addressing recent developments in Türkiye’s fight against terrorism, Erdogan praised Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli, his coalition partner, for his "historic stance" and declared that Türkiye is on the brink of eliminating terrorism once and for all.
He acknowledged the role of the pro-Kurdish DEM Party in maintaining a responsible tone and added, "We know exactly what we’re doing. Our goal of a Türkiye free from terrorism will mark a turning point for national development. Once this plague is eradicated, all 86 million citizens will benefit."
Erdogan also criticized opposition-held municipalities, accusing them of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency. He noted that many municipalities are heavily in debt and avoid paying their social security contributions while spending lavishly on concerts and public events.
"The people’s money is not a personal piggy bank. Municipal personnel expenses must not exceed 30% of their budgets," Erdogan warned.
He called on opposition parties to take a constructive role in key national issues such as earthquake preparedness, constitutional reform, and the fight against terrorism. "These are matters that concern all 86 million citizens. We must treat them as above politics," he said.
Turning his focus to the main opposition leader Ozgur Ozel, Erdogan did not hold back. "Unfortunately, Mr. Ozel does not do justice to his position. He talks a lot, but says little of substance, making both himself and his party look ridiculous," Erdogan said.
He accused Ozel of being disconnected from both Türkiye and global developments, and of frequently embarrassing himself with gaffes. "We are tired of correcting his mistakes, but he never tires of making new ones," he added.
Erdogan also criticized Ozel for what he described as pandering to foreign guests and tarnishing Türkiye’s image abroad. "We are not pleased to see the main opposition party acting like a revival of the old pro-British society," he said. "We hope Mr. Ozel wakes up and starts taking his responsibilities seriously."
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