As the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) intensifies its efforts for international recognition and a two-state solution, the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) is drawing criticism for its continued push towards a federal resolution. While President Ersin Tatar and Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan advocate for the acknowledgment of the TRNC's sovereignty, the CTP's alignment with Greek Cypriot party AKEL raises concerns about its commitment to the Turkish Cypriot cause.

Contrasting Visions for Cyprus

During recent events in New York, President Tatar actively promoted the two-state solution, seeking to end the 61-year isolation of Turkish Cypriots. Concurrently, President Erdoğan, in his address to the United Nations General Assembly, called for the international community to recognize the TRNC as an independent state.

In stark contrast, CTP leader Tufan Erhürman, along with party member Fikri Toros, attended a Socialist International meeting with AKEL leader Stefanos Stefanou. At this gathering, Erhürman reiterated his party's commitment to a federal solution, seemingly disregarding the prevailing stance of the Turkish Cypriot leadership and the expressed will of Türkiye.

CTP's Alignment with AKEL Raises Eyebrows

The CTP's collaboration with AKEL, a Greek Cypriot party historically associated with supporting Enosis (union with Greece) and linked to EOKA—a paramilitary organization responsible for violent acts against Turkish Cypriots—has sparked controversy. AKEL notably contributed to the rejection of the Annan Plan in 2004 by supporting the "No" vote, thwarting a United Nations-backed initiative that the majority of Turkish Cypriots accepted.

Critics argue that by aligning with AKEL, the CTP undermines the Turkish Cypriot struggle for recognition and sovereignty. The fact that AKEL's leader, during the same New York meeting, labeled Türkiye's 1974 intervention as an "invasion" and referred to Northern Cyprus as "occupied," only exacerbates these concerns.

TCE Founder Arkın Öksüzoğlu commented:

"The CTP's actions raise serious questions about their allegiance. While our leaders are fighting for international recognition and an end to our isolation, the CTP is collaborating with those who historically opposed our rights and continue to dismiss our sovereignty."

Questioning CTP's Commitment to Turkish Cypriot Interests

The CTP's insistence on a federal solution, starting from the failed Crans-Montana talks of 2017, appears disconnected from the current geopolitical realities and the aspirations of many Turkish Cypriots. The Crans-Montana conference ended without agreement, largely due to irreconcilable differences between the parties involved.

President Tatar has emphasized that the pursuit of a federation has been exhausted and that a new approach is necessary. The two-state solution, he argues, reflects the realities on the ground and ensures the security and rights of the Turkish Cypriot people.

"We have negotiated for decades with no tangible results," President Tatar stated. "It's time to embrace a solution that acknowledges our sovereignty and allows us to take our rightful place in the international community."

CTP's Four-Point Proposal: A Step Backward?

Erhürman's four-step proposal includes resuming negotiations from where they left off at Crans-Montana, a move that many view as regressive. The proposal seems to ignore the shift in geopolitical dynamics and the firm stance taken by both the TRNC leadership and Türkiye.

The proposal's reliance on a rotating presidency within a federal system is also met with skepticism. Critics question the practicality and fairness of such an arrangement, drawing parallels to other nations.

"We don't see the United Kingdom implementing a rotating prime ministership between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland," noted TCE Founder Arkın Öksüzoğlu "Why should we accept a system that potentially undermines our autonomy and subjects us to Greek Cypriot dominance?"

Perceived Threat to Turkish Cypriot Independence

Many Turkish Cypriots view the CTP's stance as a threat to their independence and hard-won rights. The party's willingness to work closely with AKEL—a party that has historically opposed Turkish Cypriot sovereignty—raises concerns about the potential consequences of a federal solution under current terms.

The collaboration is seen by some as an act of working with adversaries against one's own community. This sentiment is encapsulated in the question circulating among Turkish Cypriots:

"What do you call people who work with those who oppose our rights and deny our existence? It's a betrayal of our struggle and aspirations."

Türkiye's Firm Support for the Two-State Solution

Türkiye's support for the TRNC's sovereignty is unwavering. President Erdoğan's call at the UN for international recognition of the TRNC underscores Türkiye's commitment to a two-state solution. This approach aims to ensure peace, stability, and equitable rights for both communities on the island.

"A fair and lasting solution in Cyprus is only possible with the acceptance of two equal, sovereign states," President Erdoğan affirmed. "The international community must recognize this reality."

Türkiye's backing provides significant diplomatic and economic support to the TRNC, reinforcing the viability of the two-state proposal.

The Importance of Unity Among Turkish Cypriots

The divergence in strategies between the TRNC leadership and the CTP highlights internal divisions that may weaken the Turkish Cypriot position internationally. Unity is crucial in presenting a strong front to advocate effectively for the community's rights and interests.

A veteran Turkish Cypriot diplomat emphasized:

"Internal discord only serves to undermine our cause. We must stand together in pursuing a solution that guarantees our sovereignty and security."

Reevaluating Alliances and Objectives

The CTP's alignment with AKEL necessitates a critical examination of its objectives and the potential implications for Turkish Cypriot independence. Given AKEL's historical stance and recent statements dismissing Turkish Cypriot sovereignty, collaboration may not serve the best interests of the Turkish Cypriot people.

It's essential to consider whether the CTP's approach aligns with the community's aspirations or if it inadvertently aids those who oppose Turkish Cypriot independence.

TCE Conclusion: Charting the Right Path Forward

The Turkish Cypriot community stands at a pivotal juncture. The choices made now will significantly impact the future of the TRNC and its people. Embracing a two-state solution, as advocated by President Tatar and supported by Türkiye, offers a path that acknowledges the realities on the island and secures the rights and sovereignty of Turkish Cypriots.

In contrast, the CTP's pursuit of a federal solution in partnership with AKEL raises concerns about compromising Turkish Cypriot independence and potentially subjecting the community to unfavorable terms.

As the saying goes, "United we stand, divided we fall." It is imperative for the Turkish Cypriot community to unite behind a common vision that prioritizes their sovereignty, security, and prosperity.