Debates on Respect for Democracy, the Ballot Box and the Result and Democratic Tensions in Türkiye

We are facing a very serious test in terms of democracy. One of the most basic principles is on the risk line: “Respect for the ballot box and the outcome”.

The right to vote and be elected and the ballot box, which is indispensable for the reflection of the will of the nation, and the issue of respect for the result are being drawn into a great debate. Since we cannot say "the ballot box is guilty", a clear, non-partisan stance against wrongdoings is essential. But the "buts" do not end; The erosion of democratic, secular and rule of law principles continues.

We are all watching a strange "transfer journey" on behalf of the ruling party in places where the opposition won the local elections. While we are talking about the absolute nullity of the CHP, the dissolution of the party, and the full-throated pressure on the NEW Party, there is no end to the controversial arrests, dawn operations, the submission of those with "full baggage" to the government, partisan/rental relations, and members/presidents switching from the party they were elected to the diametrically opposite party. As the operations and "transfers" become more frequent and become dangerously ordinary, it seems that the person who reverses his voting address has crossed the line of shame.

The last stop in the operations against the opposition-held metropolitan municipalities was Mersin last week. In some comments, it was claimed that the aim was to prevent Vahap Seçer from a possible presidential candidacy. While the attitude towards Üsküdar Municipality, which is incompatible with democratic principles, was being discussed in Istanbul, Eyüpsultan and Ataşehir were added to the new waves. Claims that the stones of the process are being laid towards IMM are increasing.

It is pointed out that the difference between CHP and "Cumhur" members in the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Assembly has decreased to 12. So, is it possible for a government that "turned" municipalities to itself through non-ballot means, describe this as a success story and not see the social reaction? Can the fact that it sees and continues to be explained within the framework of the principle of respect for democratic principles and the will of the voters?... Can a culture of democracy be built by creating a "controlled opposition"?

Turkey's journey to democracy has never been easy. But despite all the difficulties, a strong stance was always taken to respect the will of the ballot box. It should not be forgotten that voters will hold accountable those who erode this will at the ballot box. In the climate of constant pressure, voters should not be alienated from the ballot box by thinking that somehow their will is not respected. Undoubtedly, in participatory, pluralistic democracies, going to the polls alone is not enough. Otherwise, there are many examples of countries that say, "I established the ballot box, I won" and that do not pass the edge of democracy. It is necessary to ensure that the opportunity to elect/be elected the government/opposition within the framework of constitutional fundamental rights and freedoms, to campaign in every region of the country, and to comply with the principle of separation of powers; not allowing a climate of oppression and fear; Voter participation and ballot box security.

Crisis topics on the country's agenda are quite heavy. While the rebellion of retirees and workers echoes in the squares, all eyes are on whether accountability will be equal for everyone in the huge fund robbery in which important names of the government are involved. Just like how the equation between power/supporter closeness and acquittal will result.

It is difficult to keep up with the speed of operations. But from "fund" scandals to green fields, corruption, corruption and ethical/moral erosion are obvious. Undoubtedly, those who are involved in specific crimes must first be brought to justice, but shouldn't the system that allows this dirty climate be questioned?...

IT SHOULD NOT BE DRAWN INTO THE YEMEN CRISIS