Minister Gürlek declares 'this is not a choice, but a necessity': It is now inevitable

Minister of Justice Akın Gürlek harshly criticized the 1982 Constitution, describing it as a "tutelage in legal guise." Emphasizing that the current constitution remains inadequate in the face of social demands and security needs, Gürlek stated, "We must re-establish the moral contract between the nation and the state; a new constitution is now inevitable."

Drawing a broad perspective ranging from Turkey's recent political history to the fight against terrorism, and from legal reform to the need for a new constitution, Minister Gürlek emphasized that the remnants of the tutelage system must be completely cleared away.

'THE 1982 CONSTITUTION IS A PATCHWORK'

Stating in his speech that the current constitution poses an obstacle to democratic life, Minister Gürlek said, "The 1982 Constitution, a product of a junta mentality, is a tutelage in legal guise that complicates conditions for our social peace and a developing Turkey. At the point we have reached today, this text is insufficient in the face of national security threats, changing world conditions, and increasing demands for rights and freedoms. It is a necessity to remove this patchwork from the agenda and gift the nation a new constitution that sheds light on the era."

'THE SAFEST HARBOR OF POLITICS IS MORALITY'

Defining politics as the "will to walk together with the nation," Gürlek recalled that the crises Turkey experienced in the past and processes he called "dark stains," such as February 28, were only overcome through a strong political will.

Stating that the journey President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan started in Istanbul was the "voice of the silent majority," the Minister expressed that Turkey has now become a power that sets the rules rather than one that takes orders.

TWO MAJOR GOALS

Summarizing his mission during his tenure as Minister of Justice as "justice that is not delayed and is accessible," Gürlek shared two main strategic goals for the coming period:

A Terror-Free Turkey: To completely eliminate the threat of terrorism, which weakens democracy and hinders development.

Rule of Law: To establish a transparent justice system that guarantees citizens' freedom to seek their rights in the strongest possible way.

Minister Gürlek concluded his speech by addressing the youth:

"If you cannot be powerful in politics, you cannot reflect your ideals. Turkey's destiny has changed by sweeping away the remnants of tutelage."