Turkish president says public resistance protected democracy and vows continued action against FETO
ANKARA: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday described the failed July 15, 2016 coup attempt as a defining moment in the country’s modern history, saying it marked a declaration of independence that shaped the vision of the “Türkiye Century.”
In an article titled July 15: The Declaration of Independence of the Türkiye Century, published on the 10th anniversary of Democracy and National Unity Day, Erdogan said the attempted coup by the Fetullah Terrorist Organisation (FETO) targeted not only the elected government but also Türkiye’s democratic order, national sovereignty and independence.
He said the Turkish people responded decisively by taking to the streets to defend democracy, calling the public resistance a historic victory that demonstrated the nation’s unity and determination.
Tribute to victims and national resistance
Erdogan noted that 253 people were killed and more than 2,000 others were injured while resisting the coup attempt. He said citizens answered his call for public resistance with the same resolve displayed during Türkiye’s War of Independence.
According to the president, the public’s response reflected the country’s democratic values and national solidarity. He praised those who lost their lives and described their sacrifice as a lasting symbol of the nation’s commitment to protecting its constitutional order.
Fight against FETO continues
Reviewing developments over the past decade, Erdogan said Turkish authorities had carried out a sustained campaign against FETO across state institutions and other sectors. He stated that the organisation had been removed from key areas, including the military, judiciary, bureaucracy and business community.
However, he stressed that the campaign remains ongoing, warning that vigilance is necessary to prevent similar groups from infiltrating state institutions in the future.
Erdogan said preserving the memory and lessons of July 15 is essential for future generations and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating FETO and other organisations it considers security threats.
Concluding his message, the president said Türkiye has emerged stronger, more united and more resilient over the past decade. He also paid tribute to those who died during the failed coup attempt and expressed hope that the country’s unity, stability and democratic institutions would continue to endure.
