Speaking at his party’s constitutional congress, the leader of the National Unity Party (UBP) and 'prime minister' said the pre-election campaign has now officially begun. He noted that party organisations, 'MPs, mayors' and youth and women's branches are already active, adding that both “local and general elections” are approaching, without specifying dates.
“We have only one goal – to come to power,” he said.
According to Turkish Cypriot media reports, Ustel devoted a significant part of his speech to the Cyprus issue, arguing that the reality of two states on the island already exists.
“The solution is clear. The name of the solution is two states,” he said, adding that alternative models have failed to deliver results for half a century.
He also claimed that under his 'administration,' relations with “motherland Turkey” have been further strengthened, with a number of projects implemented through economic and financial cooperation agreements. He thanked Turkey’s President and Vice-President Cevdet Yilmaz for their support to the Turkish Cypriot “people.”
Referring to his government’s record, Mr Ustel pointed to projects in health, education, transport, energy and youth, including the construction of schools, hospitals, roads and a new airport.
He said his administration had also reformed “local government” and supported the “public” during the pandemic and economic pressures linked to wars.
Constitutional changes
A statement from the UBP said the proposed amendments to its party constitution are aimed at aligning with a recent “law on political parties” and do not constitute fundamental changes but technical adjustments.
However, reports indicate that several provisions related to the Cyprus issue have been revised to emphasise “sovereign equality” and “internationally equal status.”
According to these reports, earlier references to working towards integration into the international community were replaced with language prioritising recognition of the Turkish Cypriot state and its equality on the international stage, alongside national security.
Further amendments reportedly shift the party’s position on a Cyprus settlement towards explicit acceptance of “sovereign equality” and continued guarantees by Turkey, replacing earlier language tied to a federal framework.
Additional clauses reaffirm the central role of Turkey’s guarantees as a “red line,” emphasising continued cooperation with Ankara and the importance of unity among Turkish Cypriots in pursuing these objectives.
Source: CNA
