Turkish Cypriots have made a historic decision by electing pro-European leftist leader Tufan Erhurman. In the country’s presidential elections, the 55-year-old politician defeated nationalist candidate Ersin Tatar, the incumbent president of the unrecognized country, with 62.8% of the vote.
Experts say that the 27 percentage point difference is an absolute victory that could cause an earthquake in Cypriot politics.
Recall that Cyprus has been divided into two parts since 1974. After the proclamation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, it has not been recognized by any state in the world except Turkey. Since then, up to 45,000 Turkish troops have been stationed in the north.
The British The Guardian writes that Erhurman’s victory is a signal that secular Turkish Cypriots are tired of the policy of isolation.
Cyprus joined the EU in 2004, but the benefits of membership apply only to the internationally recognized south. Erhürman, a law professor, has pledged to restart talks aimed at creating a federal republic, with Greek and Turkish Cypriots living in a bicommunal union.
Upon learning of the victory, Erhürman issued a message of unity, promising to embrace his compatriots regardless of their party affiliation.
