Parliament Speaker Kurtulmuş makes 'new constitution' statement: 'Without going to a referendum...'

Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş spoke at the reception held in the Ceremony Hall on the occasion of the April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day and the 104th anniversary of the opening of the TBMM. 

Regarding the new constitution efforts, Kurtulmuş stated that they would begin as soon as possible with the parties that have groups in Parliament, adding, “We will increase contacts; parties will visit one another. As the Speaker of Parliament, we will ensure that everyone with an idea contributes to this process by taking the views of parties with and without groups, as well as NGOs, universities, and the legal community in Turkey. 

We would prefer that the constitutional work, which will ensure unity and integration, does not become a cause for division,” he said.

"A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT CAN BE MADE WITHOUT GOING TO A REFERENDUM"

In response to a question regarding the method for the Constitution, Kurtulmuş said, “There needs to be a method that the majority of all political parties can accept. Hopefully, after putting forth these sincere efforts, a constitutional amendment can be made in the TBMM with a large majority, without needing to go to a referendum.”

Regarding the meeting between President Erdoğan and CHP Chairman Özel, Kurtulmuş said, “The President will accept Republican People's Party (CHP) Chairman Özgür Özel as soon as possible, likely next week. It took place in a very nice and sincere manner, in accordance with the spirit of National Sovereignty and Children's Day.”

Kurtulmuş stated that the 1921 Constitution was a comparison and that he did not have a speech suggesting the 64 articles be taken as a basis.

News Source: İHA