Gökçebel: "We Will Defend Secular Life and Atatürk's Principles, Not Just One Issue"

"This is not just about clothing freedom or legal frameworks. It is a much deeper issue. We will defend not a single topic, but a secular life grounded in Atatürk's principles," Gökçebel said in a statement ahead of the demonstration.

"Society Is Tired of These Impositions"

Highlighting the frustration within society, Gökçebel stated, “People are fed up with these backward pressures. Society is being dragged backwards and pushed toward extinction through education policies, sociopolitical interventions, and demographic engineering.”

He noted that society wishes to exist with its own religion, language, and democracy, and pointed to the growing influence of religious sects, foundations, and corporate entities, which he claims are contributing to social oppression and economic impoverishment.

Gökçebel strongly criticized the government's stance on controversial issues such as the planned presidential complex and child abuse cases, calling them unacceptable. He also condemned the AK Party's propaganda campaigns, saying they harm the sensitivities of the Turkish Cypriot community.

"The People Want a Government That Reflects Their Will"

Gökçebel stressed that the public desires a government that truly represents their will. He accused the current administration of attempting to dismantle constitutional and educational laws under external instruction, further fueling public tension.

He called on authorities to respect the will and equality of the people, and emphasized that the protesters will not only be addressing a single issue, but will also be standing up for a secular lifestyle inspired by Atatürk’s principles.

“Political Islam Will Deepen Division”

In closing, Gökçebel warned that the importation of political Islam would cause serious unrest, social conflict, and division within society. He questioned whether the government is even aware of the potential damage this path could cause.