Turkish Ambassador Warns Coups Remain a Threat to Democracy

Turkish Ambassador to Indonesia Talip Kucukcan stated that the 10th anniversary of the attempted coup in Turkey serves as a momentum to affirm the importance of safeguarding democracy and strengthening state institutions. “The attempted coup of 15 July 2016 is a lesson on the importance of protecting democracy,” Ambassador Talip said at the 15 July Democracy and National Unity Day commemoration in Jakarta on Wednesday (15/7). According to him, democracy can only be maintained through strong institutions and legitimate governance processes. Ambassador Talip emphasised that political change must be pursued through democratic mechanisms, not through violence or the misuse of religion and ideology for political interests. He added that democracy is a shared responsibility of all elements of society, not just the government or the president. Therefore, the entire community must play a role in safeguarding the democratic system so that it continues to function well and can withstand various threats to national stability. Meanwhile, via a video link, Head of Communications of the Turkish Presidency Burhanettin Duran said the commemoration of 15 July 2016 marks an unforgettable turning point in the nation’s history. “The people’s resistance led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that night proved that the will of the people cannot be subdued by any force,” he said. According to Duran, 15 July 2016 was the day the Turkish people defended the popular will, freedom, and national sovereignty. Under President Erdogan’s leadership, the courage, wisdom, and uncompromising resistance of the Turkish people showed the world that the popular will cannot be enslaved by any force, he said. “The steadfastness of the people that night not only thwarted the coup attempt but also became a turning point that secured Turkey’s future and its democratic journey,” he said.