Ertan Karpazli, an independent candidate running for the MP seat in Enfield North, is making headlines with his bold campaign.

Born in Enfield in 1987 to Turkish Cypriot parents, Karpazli’s deep connection to the community is evident in his extensive work as a journalist and activist. His family hails from the Karpaz peninsula of Cyprus, with roots tracing back to the villages of Serdarlı and Ergazi-Kurtuluş. This deep-rooted heritage gives Karpazli a unique perspective on issues affecting both the local and international Turkish Cypriot community.

From Journalism to Politics

Karpazli’s educational journey saw him graduate in Creative and Media Writing from Middlesex University in 2008. His career took him to Istanbul and Egypt, where he furthered his studies in Arabic and Islamic theology. The political turmoil in Egypt led him back to Istanbul, where he began his journalism career at Dünya Bülteni and later TRT World. His work as a journalist in Turkey and the UK, including contributions to MyLondon, The Mirror, The Daily Express, and The Daily Star, has given him an objective understanding of local and international issues.

Motivated by Justice

Karpazli’s decision to enter politics was significantly influenced by the recent Gaza crisis. Disillusioned by the lack of condemnation from the UK’s major political parties, Karpazli felt compelled to take a stand. "I felt the need to take matters into my own hands as amid all those feelings of disillusionment, I couldn’t trust anyone besides myself to stand up for what’s right," he stated in an interview with T-Vine.

His campaign is supported by the Enfield Community Action Group, which seeks to provide an alternative to the mainstream parties. The group's mission is to challenge the political status quo and offer a genuine alternative to voters in Enfield North.

Advocating for the Enfield Community

Karpazli's campaign resonates with many Enfield North residents who feel underrepresented by the incumbent MP. He has emphasized his commitment to addressing both local and national issues, with a particular focus on the disenfranchised communities. "Nearly all the people of Enfield North who I’ve spoken with don’t feel that the incumbent MP represents them," Karpazli said. "They don’t feel like they have a voice in Parliament on a number of matters, with Gaza of course being at the forefront".

Focus on Local Issues

Karpazli has highlighted several critical issues affecting Enfield North, including poverty, unemployment, education, opportunities for young people, crime, pensions, and healthcare. "Enfield is home to some of the poorest, most deprived people in the UK and they’re seriously being let down by the status quo," he explained. Karpazli's campaign promises to bring these pressing issues to the forefront of parliamentary discussions, ensuring that the voices of Enfield North residents are heard and addressed.

Grassroots Support and Independent Spirit

The Enfield Community Action Group, which backs Karpazli, is a grassroots organization formed in response to the perceived failures of mainstream political parties, especially concerning international issues like the Gaza conflict. The group aims to challenge the political status quo and offer a genuine alternative to voters in Enfield North. "I decided to run as an independent because I have lost faith in party politics, and I think a lot of people feel the same," Karpazli noted. His campaign slogan, "Vote for Principle, not Party," underscores his commitment to integrity and accountability.

Empowering the Turkish Cypriot Community

Karpazli's Turkish Cypriot heritage plays a central role in his political vision. He advocates for the rights of Turkish Cypriots, including the end of embargoes and the recognition of a two-state solution for Cyprus. His campaign promises to amplify the voices of Turkish Cypriots in the UK and ensure their concerns are addressed in Parliament. "The international isolation of the Turkish Cypriots cannot continue. It is a human rights matter that has been overlooked for way too long, and if I enter Parliament, I will fight until this situation is changed," Karpazli asserted.

A Call to Action

As the general election approaches, Ertan Karpazli’s campaign offers fresh perspectives and new hope for Enfield North. His dedication to his community and his roots in Turkish Cypriot heritage set him apart as a significant figure in the political landscape. Karpazli encourages all eligible voters in Enfield North to support his campaign and make their voices heard. "It’ll take time and a lot of patience, but we need to keep our intentions and motivations pure. If we do this, and just put in a little bit of effort on polling day, we could topple the status quo in our constituencies," he urged.

For more information about Ertan Karpazli’s campaign and how you can support him, visit the Enfield Community Action Group and follow his updates on T-Vine. Your vote can make a difference in bringing about real change in Enfield North.