15th July: Great Victory Day for the Turkish People and Democracy
Dr. Syed Mehboob
Senior Business and Political Analyst
http//: www.thenewslark.com
Email:[email protected]
Recep Tayyip Erdogan is a popular, able, visionary leader of Türkiye. People of Türkiye love and admire him. Erdogan led Türkiye towards a path of exemplary development. Today Türkiye is at the victory stand and occupies a very dignified and important place among the international community. When Tayyip Erdogan came into power in 2002, Türkiye was facing a severe economic crisis; it faced a financial crash in 2001. The outgoing coalition government left behind immense budget deficits, a plunging currency, a stock market crash, and soaring inflation. The economy suffered one if its worst contractions since World War II. Price instability plunged the country into chronic inflation rates exceeding 50%. The banking and financial sectors were in disarray with unmanageable public debts. Unemployment was higher at 10%.
Today, Türkiye is the world’s 16th-largest economy, the 7th-largest in Europe in terms of nominal GDP, and the 11th-largest in the world and the 5th-largest in Europe in terms of Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). Erdogan’s farsighted leadership led Türkiye to a high place in the world.
Some enemies of democracy did not like this development, progress, and stability. They hatched a conspiracy against the elected and popular government. On the night of 15th July, 2016, ten years ago, the Republic of Türkiye experienced a military coup attempt. The entire country held its breath while watching, on television and on social media, an attempted military coup from start to finish. Tanks rolled down city streets, fighter jets bombed the parliamentary building, the president addressed his supporters via FaceTime on live TV and called on all citizens to take to the streets, followed by resisting civilians being gunned down by soldiers on the Bosphorus Bridge. By the end of the night, more than 200 of these anti-coup demonstrators would be killed and 2,193 injured. However, this attempt failed; the people of Türkiye did not allow conspirators to remove their popular and beloved leader. This sacrifice of people failed attempts to remove Tayyip Erdogan, and since then, the Turkish people celebrate this day of 15th July as “Democracy and the National Unity Day”.
While Islam was always unofficially a part of many commemorative projects, the observance of July 15 marks the first time that a national holiday has been celebrated with Islamic spirit. In 2017, July 15 was declared an official holiday in Turkey. The first anniversary of July 15 included many commemorative events. While the commemorations also included Ottoman and modern commemorative elements, the dominant vocabulary was that of Islam. For example, the events under the auspices of the presidency focused on the martyrs (şehit) and their families, such as visiting martyrs’ graves, commemoration events with the participation of families of martyrs and warriors for Islam (gazi – in modern Turkish also signifying “veteran”), and so on. Some of these events took place at the AKP headquarters. In his address to family members of the civilians killed or injured in the Beştepe People’s Congress and Culture Center in Ankara, two weeks after the failed coup attempt. President Erdoğan used many religious motifs, mentioning that those who died trying to prevent it were martyrs and would be embraced by Allah and the Prophet. That was not the only instance in which Erdoğan used such terms. In a speech to inaugurate the monument built in Istanbul on July 15, 2017, Erdoğan used religious terms, tying Turkish nationalism to Islam: What did our people who stood against them have? Did our citizens have weapons in their hands? Like today, they held in their hand only flags, but they had a much more powerful weapon, and that weapon was faith. Do you know what God has promised the martyrs? For those who fight in the way of God, or in the way of their country and nation? He has promised them paradise.
In the heart of Turkey's bustling metropolis, Istanbul, lies a day of profound significance — Democracy and National Unity Day. Observed annually on July 15th, this day marks a pivotal moment in Turkey's modern history, commemorating the resilience of its people and the strength of its democratic values. For those fortunate enough to find themselves in Istanbul on this moving occasion, it offers a unique opportunity to dive into the city's rich tapestry of culture, history, and collective memory.
With the backdrop of Istanbul's iconic landmarks and vibrant streets, visitors can immerse themselves in a city that pulsates with life, yet also carries within it the echoes of past struggles and triumphs. From the majestic domes of the Hagia Sophia Mosque to the bustling streets of the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul's charm lies not only in its architectural splendor but also in its ability to embrace diversity and honor its heritage.
July 15th holds profound significance for Turkey, marking the anniversary of a pivotal moment in its modern history. On this day in 2016, the Turkish people bravely stood against a coup attempt, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to democracy and national unity. The events of July 15th serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic principles and preserving the unity of the nation. For Turkey, Democracy and National Unity Day symbolizes resilience, solidarity, and the triumph of democracy over forces seeking to undermine it.
In Istanbul, the significance of this day is deeply intertwined with the city's identity and spirit. As Turkey's cultural and economic hub, Istanbul played a central role in the events of July 15th, with its residents taking to the streets to defend democracy. The events of July 15th left a lasting impact. In Istanbul, the Bosphorus Bridge became a focal point of the turmoil, as soldiers opened fire on civilians responding to the government’s call to resist the coup. Many lost their lives or were injured during these tragic events. In recognition of their sacrifice, the Council of Ministers renamed the Bosphorus Bridge as the “15th July Martyrs’ Bridge,” honoring those who stood against the coup. This renaming serves as an important reminder of the resilience and unity demonstrated by the people of Turkey, particularly in Istanbul, in defense of democracy and national unity.
Today, the city commemorates Democracy and National Unity Day with solemn ceremonies, cultural events, and public gatherings, honoring the sacrifices made and reaffirming its commitment to democratic values. For Istanbul, this day serves as a testament to its resilience, unity, and unwavering dedication to freedom and democracy. Together, Democracy and National Unity Day hold a profound meaning for both Turkey and Istanbul, serving as a reminder of the importance of democracy, unity, and the collective strength of the nation.
On July 15th, Istanbul comes alive with a blend of commemorative events and cultural activities, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the city's spirit of resilience and unity. First of all, this day is a National Holiday, and nearly all non-touristic workplaces are closed. On this day, public transportation is free for all Turkish citizens.
As the sun sets on July 15th in Istanbul, reflecting on the events of the day offers a profound reminder of the city's resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to democracy. From solemn commemorations at the 15th July Martyrs’ Bridge to vibrant cultural festivities across the city, the spirit of solidarity is palpable in every corner of Istanbul. As visitors bid farewell to this memorable day, they carry with them not only memories of a city steeped in history and tradition but also a deep appreciation for the values that bind its people together.
President Tayyip in his message for Democracy and Nation Unity Day celebration said:
“On July 15, 2016, the treacherous coup attempt aimed at our nation’s will, our democracy, the principles and revolutions of Atatürk, and the Republic of Türkiye was thwarted thanks to the honorable resistance of our people and institutional solidarity. That dark night was not only a struggle for democracy, but also a powerful statement to the world that there is no power above the national will, demonstrating the supremacy of law and the strength of democracy.”
Democratic norms and values under the dynamic leadership of His Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdogan are gaining strength and as a friend and staunch supporter of brother country, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people and leadership of Türkiye and pray to Almighty Allah for the further strength, growth, and development of Türkiye and longevity of Turkish farsighted and able leadership.
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