Tatar on Election Outcome: “We Must Respect the Voter’s Will”

Speaking to Kıbrıs TV, Tatar recalled that he had entered the presidential race as an independent candidate supported by three parties. “There is something odd about the results,” he said. “Yes, three parties worked for this campaign, but their combined vote share should have been higher. This shows that there were issues both within and between the parties, and those problems were reflected in the outcome.”

Tatar said that during his five years in office he had worked tirelessly, introduced a new political vision, led projects to move the country forward, and strengthened relations with Turkey.

Acknowledging that Cyprus faced many challenges, Tatar said: “The Greek Cypriot side’s provocations, property disputes, and various tensions… There’s much to be said. I believe all these factors influenced the direction of the vote.”

He expressed hope that the election results would be carefully assessed, leading to political revisions aimed at improving the welfare, freedom, and happiness of the Turkish Cypriot people. “What matters most,” he added, “is the happiness and prosperity of our people. No one should occupy these positions just for the sake of sitting there.”

Commenting on the Cyprus issue, Tatar said he had proposed opening new crossing points in Haspolat and Akıncılar, but the opposition used the slogan “He couldn’t even open a single crossing” against him during the campaign. He also criticised the Greek Cypriot side for creating long queues at the Metehan checkpoint, adding that some voters unfairly blamed him for it.

Tatar claimed that campaigns were run in South Cyprus with messages such as “Tatar will go, Erhürman will come, the negotiation table will return, and there will be hope for Christodoulides.” He described these as attempts to “pump hope” into the public, saying, “People always seek hope.”

Despite the pandemic, earthquakes, wars, and other crises, Tatar said he had worked hard to keep the administration functioning. “I pursued diplomacy and made great efforts,” he said, “but it wasn’t enough — people always expect more.”

He acknowledged public dissatisfaction over the cost of living and population changes, adding:

“All these issues were somehow pinned on the presidency. I thank everyone — those who supported me and those who did not. I gave my utmost effort. I promoted our country tirelessly, spoke on international platforms under our own flag for the first time, and made our voice heard around the world. We strengthened our ties with Turkey at the highest level, and this period has been one of strong affection and solidarity.”

Tatar said he would offer more detailed assessments of the election results in the coming days and once again congratulated Erhürman on his victory.

When asked about his next steps, Tatar said he needed some rest before deciding what comes next.