Baybars: Rushed Attempt to Pass Two-State Model in Parliament Is a ‘Panic Attack’

Speaking on Sabahın Haberleri on Kıbrıs Postası TV, hosted by Canan Onurer, Baybars first assessed the recently concluded legislative year. She described it as chaotic, noting that the public had even been questioning whether the opening session of Parliament would reach a quorum. She added that while citizens were waiting for laws to be passed, postponing the next session until after the presidential election on 20 October was understandable.

‘Government’s Moves Seen as Panic Attacks’

Baybars strongly criticised the government’s proposal to have Parliament endorse the two-state vision with unanimity. She argued that as elections draw closer, the government’s hurried actions are perceived by society as “panic attacks.” According to her, both the government and the president are pursuing policies marked by panic, instability and unsustainability.

She underlined that President Ersin Tatar himself had not clarified the scope or objectives of the two-state solution despite calls for explanation, stressing that pushing through such a major shift without negotiations was wrong.

‘Without Consultation, It’s Just a Perception Game’

Baybars pointed out that the two-state proposal had been prepared in advance but was only circulated to MPs via email after yesterday’s session had ended. She argued that if the government truly wanted it debated, it could have tabled the proposal earlier, given its majority in Parliament.

While acknowledging that such decisions could technically pass with a simple majority, she emphasised that a fundamental paradigm shift in Cyprus policy must first be discussed, fleshed out, and built on common ground. Otherwise, she said, it amounts to nothing more than a perception exercise.

She also noted that although Parliament had been adjourned until 20 October, it could technically be reconvened earlier if necessary. The fact that the proposal was held back until after the session revealed, in her view, confusion within the government itself.

‘Erhürman Is the Right Candidate for the Turkish Cypriot People’

Turning to the 19 October presidential election, Baybars described it as a highly significant vote, urging citizens to reflect their will at the ballot box. She endorsed CTP leader Tufan Erhürman, saying he was the right candidate to make the Turkish Cypriot community more visible both domestically and internationally, while also restoring meritocracy in institutions.

“Erhürman is the most suitable choice for the Turkish Cypriot people,” Baybars concluded.