Şahali Accuses Government of Being ‘Indifferent and Dishonourable’

Speaking during the ‘Sabah Postası’ programme on Kıbrıs Postası TV, hosted by Gökhan Altıner, Şahali warned that the country is experiencing a deep and pervasive decay, remarking that “not even a leaf is moving.”

Pointing to what he described as an environment tainted by accusations, scandals, and political disputes, Şahali said the situation had reached a point that, in any democratic system, would compel a government to step down. “These are matters severe enough for a government with a democratic mindset to withdraw from office,” he said. “Forget anyone making a move—nothing moves at all. It is a posture that is both indifferent and dishonourable.”

Şahali said society wakes up one day to allegations of bribery and the next to political controversy, creating what he called a “filthy atmosphere.” Such a system, he argued, makes even the symbolic prestige of power meaningless. “In such a setup, what difference does it make if you are prime minister and ride in a car with the 002 licence plate?” he asked.

The CTP Secretary-General called on the public to stand firm, stressing that the party would remain on the people’s side. He suggested that the government may opt for an early election in June to maximise its political advantage but added that the current structure is unsustainable. According to Şahali, the decay has spread across all institutions and can no longer be concealed.

‘I Do Not Believe We Are in a Reset Situation… I Am Continuing My Duties’

Touching on the recent extraordinary party congress, Şahali expressed gratitude to all his comrades, noting that Republican Turkish Party members avoided any behaviour that could fuel internal fanaticism. He said the congress results were fully accepted within the party and that he harboured no resentment or objection.

Şahali emphasised that he and the newly elected party leader, Sıla Usar İncirli, have always been friends and comrades, wishing her success in her new role. He underlined that he would remain a dedicated part of any collective achievement the party secures.

Referring to his own position, Şahali reminded viewers that he was elected Secretary-General in a race that featured three candidates. He noted, however, that the authority that had appointed him to this role was not the same authority that elected İncirli as party leader. He stressed that the extraordinary congress stemmed from the departure of the previous leader, not from a party-wide restructuring. The Party Council, he said, remains fully active and competent.

“I do not believe we are in a reset situation,” Şahali stated. “I am content with the expression ‘I am continuing my duties.’ In the past, there were instances where changes were made within the Central Executive Committee under different circumstances. As far as I recall, the current situation bears no resemblance to those examples. This matter is entirely within the authority of the Party Council. Under the party statute, the responsibilities of the Party Council and the leader are equal.”