Erhürman: "The Government is Dragging Out Issues Unnecessarily, Harming the Public"

Regarding the recent 5+1 meeting in Geneva, Erhürman noted that another meeting is scheduled for July. While he acknowledged that the appointment of a personal envoy was a significant step, he questioned whether these developments were leading to a comprehensive solution, stating, “It’s too early to say.”

He stressed that even the worst diplomatic atmosphere is better than a lack of dialogue, suggesting that the latest meeting could be seen as a minor gain: “We went with nothing and came back with something.”

"Dialogue is Always Beneficial"

Erhürman emphasized the importance of keeping the Cyprus issue on the UN’s agenda, criticizing the four-and-a-half-year lack of negotiations. He argued that engaging in dialogue, even under difficult conditions, was preferable, as it allowed the Turkish Cypriot side to voice its concerns before the UN.

He also pointed out that developments in Turkey and the world could influence the process in unpredictable ways. Criticizing both President Ersin Tatar and Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides, Erhürman noted that neither had maintained an active role in shaping the negotiations. “A task was given regarding border crossings in New York, but two crossings couldn’t even be opened before heading to Geneva,” he said.

Erhürman questioned why issues like Haspolat should be a priority for the UN Secretary-General and argued that no real shift in approach had occurred since Geneva. “The UN Secretary-General is merely calling for trust-building measures between the communities,” he stated.

"Has Turkey Abandoned Its Role as a Guarantor for the Whole Island?"

Erhürman also criticized Christodoulides’ position, questioning why he now advocates for resuming negotiations from where they left off at Crans-Montana. “If you were in favor of that process, why did you walk away at the time?” he asked. He also accused the Greek Cypriot side of ignoring the Berlin process.

Addressing Tatar, Erhürman questioned how he could simultaneously advocate for a two-state solution while continuing to emphasize security guarantees: “Has Turkey abandoned its role as a guarantor for the entire island?”

He also pointed to inconsistencies in Tatar’s rhetoric, noting that while Tatar claims the TRNC is a separate state, he simultaneously demands a share in the hydrocarbon resources of the Republic of Cyprus. Erhürman argued that issues such as maritime jurisdiction, security, and energy resources should be handled jointly by both communities. He also claimed that the UN Secretary-General had little hope for meaningful dialogue between Tatar and Christodoulides.

"The Government is Focused on Managing Perceptions Rather Than Solving Problems"

On domestic matters, Erhürman identified the three most pressing issues as the economy, healthcare, and education. He argued that economic hardships were worsening, citing the rising value of the euro and increasing reliance on the Greek Cypriot economy. He also criticized the rising cost of private education and the deteriorating state of public healthcare.

Regarding the controversial headscarf regulation in schools, Erhürman accused the government of handling the issue poorly. He claimed that the regulation was introduced without consulting the necessary technical committees, leading to confusion and polarization among students, parents, and teachers.

He also pointed out inconsistencies in the government’s stance, noting that while the new regulation allowed headscarves, the same government had previously issued a regulation stating that they were not permitted. He criticized the government for creating social divisions and failing to properly consult experts before implementing such policies.

Erhürman concluded by stating that the government was more concerned with shaping public perception than addressing real issues, warning that its prolonged indecisiveness was harming society.