Türkiye Commemorates July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day in Karachi

By Aziz Khatri

KARACHI: The Consulate General of the Republic of Türkiye in Karachi held a solemn commemoration ceremony on Tuesday to mark July 15 – Democracy and National Unity Day. This event remembered the victims and honored the heroes who bravely resisted the attempted coup in Türkiye in 2016.

Dr. Cemal Sangu, the Consul General of Türkiye in Karachi, delivered the keynote address, reflecting on the dramatic events of July 15, 2016. He described it as “a dark chapter in our nation's history,” when “a faction within our military, led by the Fetullahist Terrorist Organization (FETÖ), sought to overthrow our democratically elected government and undermine the very foundations of our republic.”

The Consul General emphasized that the attempted coup was an assault not only on the government but on Türkiye’s democracy, freedoms, and way of life. “FETÖ, led by Fethullah Gülen, infiltrated our institutions over decades using deception and manipulation. It is not only a terrorist organization, but also an espionage organization with a cult character,” he stated. 

“No one should forget that the name of democracy is Türkiye,” he remarked, recounting the harrowing scenes that unfolded that night. “Tanks rolled into our streets, jets flew low over our cities, and soldiers attempted to seize control of key installations.” Under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, “innocent civilians, unarmed and defenseless, stood up against the coup plotters, showing immense bravery and resolve,” he said. 

Dr. Sangu noted the heavy toll of the coup attempt: “Hundreds of our fellow citizens lost their lives, and thousands were injured in the struggle to protect our democracy. So, the name of heroism is Türkiye,” he added.

The Consul General highlighted the unity that emerged in the aftermath, asserting that “the people of Türkiye, regardless of political affiliation, came together to defend our democratic institutions. Our unity and determination in the face of such adversity were nothing short of inspirational.”

“Therefore, the name of courage and faith is Türkiye,” he declared.

He informed attendees that the Turkish government took immediate action after the coup, stating: “Thousands of arrests were made, and a thorough investigation was launched to bring those responsible to justice... because the name of independence is Türkiye.” 

Dr. Sangu also warned of the continuing threat posed by FETÖ: “We must remain vigilant. These dark, self-interested and corrupt elements pose a danger to all societies abroad that have ties to Türkiye... since the name of freedom is Türkiye.”

In his closing remarks, the Consul General called for lasting unity and solidarity: “The events of July 15th taught us that our greatest strength lies in our ability to come together in times of crisis... That’s why the name of solidarity is Türkiye.”

He concluded by stressing the lessons learned from the coup attempt: “It was a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy, but it also highlighted the resilience and courage of the Turkish people. The name of victory is Türkiye.” 

Dr. Sangu also paid tribute to the martyrs of July 15 and the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.