President Tatar, along with Gürsel Benan and Ahmet Aşır, gave speeches. The event ended with a poetry reading, a visit to the memorial, and prayers at the graves.
President Ersin Tatar said, “Our pain is deep, and it will always be with us. We will never forget the tragedy, and we owe our presence here to those who suffered“.
Commemorating the Atlılar Martyrs
Another ceremony took place at the Atlılar mass grave. The ceremony was similar, as wreaths were laid, a moment of silence observed, and flags were raised.
President Tatar, along with other officials and community members, attended the ceremonies.
In his speech, President Tatar honoured the victims of the Muratağa-Sandallar and Atlılar massacres. He noted that 50 years ago, the Turkish Cypriots faced a terrible genocide. Despite evidence, those responsible were never brought to justice, which has left a lasting impact on the community.
He stressed the importance of remembering these events. Tatar also expressed gratitude to the martyrs, saying that today’s peace and security are due to their sacrifices. He reassured the families that their pain is understood, and the state will continue to support them.
The head of the Martyrs’ Families and Disabled Veterans Association Gürsel Benan, described the massacres as unforgettable tragedies. He condemned the brutal acts of the EOKA, calling them a stain on humanity. He also stated that as long as Turkish forces are in Cyprus, the safety of Turkish Cypriots is assured.
Ahmet Aşır, who lost a total of 30 members of his family in the massacre carried out by EOKA-B members in Muratağa-Sandallar and Atlılarin 1974 in which 126 Cypriot Turks consisting of women and children were killed, spoke about the horrific murders. He thanked Turkey and the Turkish military for keeping their children safe. Even after 50 years, he said, the pain remains, but as long as the flags fly over the martyrs’ graves, they can rest in peace.
