Öztürkler: Cabinet Decision To Guide Election Timeline

Speaking on BRT’s “Gündem 12” programme hosted by Pembe Paşaoğluları, Öztürkler addressed parliamentary proceedings, discussions over an early election, the 2027 budget and security.

Öztürkler recalled that the General Assembly had been called to an extraordinary session at the request of CTP and independent MPs, and said the government had publicly explained its reasons for not attending the session.

Emphasising the importance he attaches to security, Öztürkler said: “We are aware of the work being carried out by our police, but we also see the incidents taking place. I respect the approach of both sides. Everyone’s common ground is peace, public order and security. These issues will come before Parliament again.”

Regarding the Election and Referendum Law, Öztürkler said the government’s work on the legislation had intensified, adding that the main issue was the removal of the mixed voting system.

Öztürkler said the scope of the proposed legislation was limited and stressed that the election date would be determined by a separate decision of the Assembly.

“The election date is not a law but a decision. The authority lies with the Republican Assembly. The government will discuss the issue in the Council of Ministers, then bring it to Parliament and a decision will be taken,” he said.

Öztürkler said the decision of the Council of Ministers on the election would be a guide, adding that he expected the Democratic Party (DP) and Rebirth Party (YDP) to announce their positions publicly after evaluating the issue within their authorised bodies.

“There are still some points that have not been clarified. The picture will emerge soon. An extraordinary session is not called before the processes are completed. If the issues mature and are concluded, we will make the call,” he said.

Öztürkler said the proposal would first have to be submitted to Parliament, its urgency approved at an extraordinary session, referred to a committee and then brought before the General Assembly.

Noting that the parliamentary committees would soon begin their work, Öztürkler said the process would be led by committee chair Yasemi Öztürk.

On the 2027 budget, Öztürkler said the Finance Ministry and the government were working on it, but argued that it would be more appropriate to leave the budget to the new Parliament and government.

Öztürkler said the summer heat had affected election campaigning and that political parties would intensify their field activities in September.

He also called for greater care in political discourse, saying politicians should set an example for society.

“Politicians need to go before the public with plans and projects. Slang, harsh and offensive language should be avoided. The political language used affects all segments of society. Therefore, everyone needs to act more carefully and responsibly,” Öztürkler said.