Üstel: We Will Go Door to Door, Work Without Sleep to Ensure Tatar’s Victory in the Election

“We will go door to door and work almost without sleep to ensure that Tatar emerges victorious,” Üstel said, underlining that re-electing Tatar is a national duty and a necessity for the Turkish Cypriot people.

Üstel emphasized that the heightened militarization in the south of the island and the creation of facilities with military base capabilities have exposed previously hidden intentions. “We are not afraid, but we are concerned for peace on our beautiful island,” he said.

He thanked Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, noting: “President Erdoğan’s statements on all platforms, particularly at the UN General Assembly, about the recognition of the TRNC and the existence of two sovereign and equal states in Cyprus demonstrate Turkey’s determination and its red lines regarding a possible settlement. Our gratitude to President Erdoğan is heartfelt.”

Üstel reiterated that the two-state policy is now the cornerstone of their political vision and pointed to the vital importance of Turkey’s effective and de facto guarantee.

“When the 1960 Republic of Cyprus was established, the reason Makarios hesitated to sign the agreement was that Turkey would also become a guarantor and the Turkish Cypriot Regiment would set foot on the island. The Greek Cypriot leadership continues Makarios’ will by insisting on ‘zero troops, zero guarantees.’ Their objection only proves how justified we are in never giving up Turkey’s guarantees,” Üstel said.

The TRNC will hold presidential elections on October 19, 2025, which Üstel described as a festival of democracy. However, he stressed that this election carries special weight.

“Those who do not recognize the existence of the TRNC and oppose political recognition are also watching our presidential election closely. One of their biggest expectations is for the outcome to harm TRNC–Turkey relations, particularly in the context of the Cyprus settlement process,” he said.

Üstel underlined that Turkey, led by President Erdoğan, has consistently shown solidarity with the TRNC. “Our homeland has always respected our values, our democracy, and our elections. This respect does not mean ignoring external calculations or future concerns,” he said, warning that a misreading of this approach could create a sense of vulnerability in the island’s defense.

Calling the UBP “a party of struggle and national duty,” Üstel urged all political parties and candidates to act responsibly.

“We fully support President and presidential candidate Ersin Tatar with these understandings, and we will make every effort to ensure that he is the winner of the election. Re-electing Ersin Tatar is our national duty. The Turkish Cypriot people need this victory,” he declared, ending his remarks by extending his respect, love, and brotherhood to the public once again.