Çeler: CTP Can't Win Without Us, and We Can't Win Without CTP

Speaking on the Gündem program aired on Kıbrıs Postası TV and hosted by Ulaş Barış, Çeler responded to remarks by Republican Turkish Party (CTP) Secretary General Asım Akansoy, who had referred to “traumas” between the two parties.

“There Is Room for Cooperation – I Will Do My Part”

Describing Akansoy’s statements as “good passes,” Çeler expressed hope that this political goodwill would lead to collaboration in the presidential and local elections, if not in general elections. He underlined his personal commitment to doing what is necessary to foster cooperation with CTP.

“I’m not talking about an electoral alliance. That’s difficult in general elections. But in presidential and local elections, there is a possibility for coordination,” he said, recalling past efforts to undermine the CDP with claims that the party couldn’t even cross the electoral threshold.

“We Forgot to Challenge UBP and Turned on Each Other”

“Sadly, these traumas are real,” Çeler added, referring to past local elections. “Throughout those campaigns, we constantly heard ‘you’re wasting your vote.’ CDP supporters are tired of that narrative. These are the traumas. And both parties are responsible. We’ve forgotten to challenge UBP and ended up fighting each other. This has to stop.”

Stressing the need for everyone to step up for the community’s future, Çeler noted, “As the CDP, we once helped elect a president from our ranks. Why not again? Are we talking? Yes, we are. We’ve been discussing this seriously for the past six months.”

“Rumors of Tatar Withdrawing from the Race Are Reaching Us Too”

Çeler also touched on Turkey’s political influence on the island and hinted at potential developments in August: “We’re hearing rumors, just like everyone else, that Ersin Tatar may withdraw from the race.”

He reaffirmed that the CDP will not shy away from any responsibility for the good of the people, and noted that the party’s Central Executive Committee (MYK) has been actively evaluating potential collaboration with CTP.

“We Must Build This Alliance on the Right Foundations”

“Our surveys confirm that mutual support is essential. CTP cannot win without us; we cannot win without them. We have to find common ground,” said Çeler. “We must build this alliance around a shared vision for peace and a solution. That’s what matters most.”

He reiterated his support for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federal solution based on political equality, calling it the most viable and lasting path for Cyprus. “We must reflect that vision clearly in the upcoming presidential election. It’s being forgotten,” he said.