Erhürman: “Christodoulides Cannot Decide Who Turkish Cypriots Marry or Where”

Speaking to the community, Erhürman emphasized the importance of the presidency in representing the Turkish Cypriot community internationally: “The presidency is the primary office that can connect us with the world. Under UN protocols, our president is recognized as the ‘Leader of the Turkish Cypriot Community,’ equal to the Greek Cypriot leader at the negotiation table. With honest diplomacy in coordination with Turkey, there is no international forum where this office cannot represent us.”

He was joined by CTP General Secretary Erkut Şahali, TDP Leader Zeki Çeler, CTP İskele District President Hüseyin Öztörel, and several MPs.

Presidency Must Be Neutral and Independent

Erhürman stressed that the presidency must remain neutral and independent, representing the entire population. “This office sometimes is perceived merely as ceremonial, but it has crucial responsibilities both domestically and internationally,” he said.

Lack of Negotiation on Comprehensive Solution

Criticizing the current administration, Erhürman said, “Previous presidents all negotiated for a comprehensive settlement. Today, no such negotiations are taking place. Even basic discussions of our rights and interests at the table are not happening. Instead, there has been confusion at border points like Beyarmudu and Metehan.”

Human Rights and Mixed Marriages

Highlighting children born from mixed marriages, Erhürman said, “These children have the right to EU citizenship through their mothers—it is as natural as a mother’s milk. Christodoulides cannot dictate whom Turkish Cypriots marry or where. Restrictions based on border crossing points are a violation of basic human rights.”

Turkey Remains the Guarantor of Cyprus

He also reminded that Turkish Cypriots who participated in the Annan Plan referendum were not challenged on where they entered the island, and their votes were accepted by the UN. “Turkey guarantees not just the Turkish Cypriot community or the TRNC, but the entire island of Cyprus,” he concluded.