Denktaş: Political Equality Not in Favor of Greek Cypriot Leadership

Recalling the period two decades ago when a solution seemed imminent, Denktaş reminded of how Rauf Denktaş, hailed as "Mr. No" for his insistence on a two-state federation, understood the reluctance of the southern politics to share with Turkish Cypriots.

Denktaş highlighted the influence of Turkey since 2002, suggesting that what was perceived as our own will eventually became shaped by external perceptions. He noted the shift in votes from "yes" to "no" among supporters influenced by Turkey. Denktaş pointed out that had the Annan Plan been accepted by the south, it might have prevented a return to conflict.

Denktaş emphasized the absence of a shared historical goal between Turkish and Greek Cypriots, citing the coerced acceptance of the 1960 Republic and Turkey's proposal for an independent state in Cyprus to ensure its Mediterranean presence. He underscored that sharing political equality was never in the interest of the Greek Cypriot leadership.

Denktaş acknowledged no personal animosity between individuals of both communities but highlighted political hurdles in power-sharing. He expressed that while consensus within each community is achievable, the issue lies in power-sharing, suggesting a new approach for the future.