Speaking at the opening of parliament, Erhürman criticised both the handling of the Cyprus issue and the domestic governance gaps. He stressed that negotiations must continue based on a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation with political equality, as outlined by the UN. He argued that without solutions, the Turkish Cypriot people will continue to face economic and social hardships.
Erhürman was clear that the political equality of Turkish Cypriots is non-negotiable, and any talks must be results-oriented with the right methods. He pointed out that the Greek Cypriot leadership’s lack of commitment to negotiations should not lead to a return to the status quo, warning that failure to push for a solution would exacerbate problems in education and property rights for the Turkish Cypriots.
Addressing internal issues, Erhürman criticised the lack of a clear population policy, noting that without accurate population data, proper planning in areas like health and education is impossible. He also took aim at the government’s handling of inflation, questioning why they were only now claiming to take action on the cost of living.
Erhürman also highlighted governance failures at key institutions like Kıb-Tek, where political appointments have caused mismanagement. He pointed out that in five years, the Department of Antiquities had four different directors, weakening the administration and causing a loss of institutional knowledge.
In closing, Erhürman stressed the widespread dissatisfaction in Northern Cyprus, noting the growing trend of young people seeking opportunities abroad. He reiterated that the current trajectory of despair is not the destiny of the Turkish Cypriot people, insisting that change is inevitable.
