70-rose celebration from Devlet Bahçeli to Erdoğan

President and AKP Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdoğan made statements at an AKP election coordination meeting.

Speaking to reporters at the AKP Headquarters, Erdoğan stated that MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli had sent him 70 roses for his birthday. Erdoğan said, "Devlet Bey sent as many roses as my age."

Highlights from Erdoğan's statements are as follows:

"You know the stance of the New Welfare Party (Yeniden Refah Partisi); they are not considering acting with the People's Alliance in many places. Their situation in the parliamentary elections has already broken off. In the local elections, they have nominated candidates in many places as the New Welfare Party.

Those who try to deceive the nation are appearing in the squares again. Turkey is a free and democratic country. Everyone has the right to engage in politics in the party they wish. The place for those who part ways and go to another party is now there. Do not give credit to the circus acrobats who say, 'If I win the election, I will be back in the AK Party.' Do not be deceived by the circus acrobats who say, 'I am a candidate from here now, but I will return to the AK Party after the election.'

The same applies to those who were in the AK Party in the past and went to another party for whatever reason. The AK Party is not a party of individuals, but a party of a cause, an ideal, and dedication to service. Whoever serves this ancient cause has a place on our heads. We do not tolerate those who attempt to engage in pirate politics. Duties in our party are like stages in a relay race. We introduced party principles, especially the 3-term rule, for this reason. As the chairman, I have discretionary powers, that is separate; but there is no such thing as squandering resources whenever and however we want. There is no obstacle for those who served in the past to take on duties again. The greatest innovation we have brought to Turkish politics is that we only feel sad for those who chart a different path for themselves and say, 'may your path be clear.'

The People's Alliance has no equal in our history. I would like to specifically express Mr. Bahçeli's efforts in the establishment of the People's Alliance. As the People's Alliance, we are going to the elections with separate candidates. I have no doubt that the AK Party organizations will work with the same determination in places where there are MHP candidates. I trust you regarding the election victory we will celebrate with enthusiasm on the evening of March 31. I believe in you. May the Lord be our helper and supporter."

News Source: 12punto