Çeler: “They may not even wait until January”

Speaking on the “Güne Dair” programme hosted by Nazar Erişkin, Çeler said there is growing public fatigue with the government and suggested that an election could be held before January.

“I don’t think they will stay until January. Even their coalition partners are saying they will sit down and decide. There may be an attempt to push through issues such as antiquities and ports before calling an election,” he said.

Çeler argued that the government is rushing to pass certain measures before stepping down, adding: “They are trying to pass whatever they can on their way out, but these are things that harm society.”

He said the TDP has made significant progress in its election preparations, describing the party as “no longer just an opposition critic but an alternative structure that is ready.”

“The TDP is coming strongly,” Çeler said, noting that the party is working on policies covering education, healthcare, the economy and digital transformation, with a focus on young candidates and experts.

In education, Çeler stressed the need to eliminate container classrooms and strengthen public schools, while in healthcare he called for the introduction of a general health insurance system.

On the economy, he argued that the current model is no longer sustainable and said the party is working on macroeconomic reforms aimed at reducing informality and broadening the tax base.

Çeler also emphasised the need for digitalisation, citing Estonia as an example of a fully integrated e-government system.

Addressing electoral system debates, he criticised proposals to abolish the “karmic vote,” claiming such moves are driven by political fear.

He also commented on press freedom, warning against legal changes that distinguish between public figures and ordinary citizens, and said public trust in government is low.

On regional issues, Çeler criticised South Cyprus’ defence and security agreements, arguing they increase risks for the whole island.

Concluding his remarks, Çeler said the TDP is growing into a strong centre-left alternative: “We are a unifying party. We are growing in every region. We will change the balance of politics in this election.”