Şonya: Simon Aykut Case Highlights the Importance of the IPC

He made these remarks during an appearance on Sabahın Haberleri on Kıbrıs Postası TV, hosted by Canan Onurer.

“No Judicial System in the World Would Arrest Everyone Building or Staying on Greek Cypriot Titled Land”
Şonya first addressed Aykut’s acceptance of 40 charges, noting that an impression had been created suggesting that anyone constructing or staying on titled land in Southern Cyprus would be arrested and tried. He clarified that neither a judicial system nor prisons of that scale exist there, and therefore such a scenario is not realistic.

“Property Issues Have Been Politicized in Northern Cyprus”
Despite this, Şonya warned that political motivations have led to inconsistent property decisions in Northern Cyprus. In some cases, title deeds were granted allowing sales, while Turkish properties remaining in Southern Cyprus were not issued deeds. He emphasized the need for a long-term and stable policy in this area.

“Land and Property Are the Key to the Cyprus Problem, Beyond Representation”
Pointing out that Greek Cypriot properties have been politicized, Şonya said that the arrests in Southern Cyprus were enabled by decisions previously made by Turkish Cypriots. He highlighted that property and land issues are among the most critical elements of the Cyprus problem, serving as its “key” rather than merely a matter of representation.

“Effective Use of the Immovable Property Commission Is More Important Than Negotiations for Resolving the Issue”
Şonya argued that the lack of continuous negotiations on property matters hinders a lasting solution, stressing that the Immovable Property Commission is the most effective tool for addressing property disputes. He noted that the Simon Aykut case serves as a serious warning of the potential escalation of these issues.

“The Aykut Case Once Again Demonstrates the Commission’s Importance”
Concluding his remarks, Şonya reiterated that the Aykut case has once again underscored why the Immovable Property Commission is so crucial.