Özuslu: Two-State Proposal Could Undo Gains Achieved Through Commitment to a Solution

Özuslu warned that the proposal carries constitutional concerns, was not published in the Official Gazette, and was discussed without a representative from the Attorney General’s Office. He cautioned that the two-state thesis could drag Turkish Cypriots back to the conditions that existed before 2004.

Speaking on Sabahın Haberleri on Kıbrıs Postası TV, Özuslu described the proposal as a “repackaged partition plan,” claiming it was brought forward purely out of election concerns.

Referring to the TRNC’s Declaration of Establishment, Özuslu noted that the constitution does not prevent federal negotiations; on the contrary, it encourages them. He argued that the proposal could be unconstitutional and criticized the government for failing to make the decision public or submit it to the Official Gazette. He added that, based on legal advice from both his party and parliamentary lawyers, the Attorney General’s Office should have provided an opinion on whether the proposal aligns with parliamentary procedure.

Özuslu said that Committee Chair Yasemi Öztürk was unable to reach the Attorney General’s Office and that such a crucial meeting was held without its representation. He also revealed that President Ersin Tatar’s name was initially included in the proposal text during the election ban period—a violation that could result in up to two years in prison—so his name was later removed.

Stating that the issue could be brought to the General Assembly, Özuslu called for a special session attended by President Tatar. He warned that the two-state thesis could lead to the loss of gains such as cross-border movements, Green Line arrangements, and the application of EU law, potentially turning northern Cyprus into an “open-air prison” similar to the pre-2004 period.

Touching on the upcoming October 19 presidential election, Özuslu expressed confidence in CTP leader Tufan Erhürman’s campaign, saying, “He draws his strength from the people, not from uncertain powers. Our target is 60 percent, and on the night of October 19, we will celebrate in the square.”