Erzurum City Council President Hüseyin Tanfer, in a message published on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day, stated that July 15 was a historical turning point where the Turkish nation embraced democracy, independence, and national will, adding, "On July 15, the era of coups was buried in history. As a nation, we will always be vigilant against traitors."
Tanfer stated that July 15 was not merely a coup attempt but also an epic where the Turkish nation's spirit of unity, solidarity, and heroism was demonstrated to the entire world, adding that on that night, the nation took to the streets at the call of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and protected its will.
In his message, Tanfer included the following statements: "Against the vile coup attempt carried out by the FETÖ Terrorist Organization to realize its treacherous plans, our nation, with its unwavering will, transformed one of the darkest nights in our history into an epic resistance. Our beloved nation, united as one from seven to seventy, did not give way to traitors by protecting its democracy, independence, and future.
"On July 15, the era of coups was buried in history."
On that dark night, our citizens, who poured into the streets at the call of our President, Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, defeated the traitors who sought to undermine their will, drawing strength from their glorious history and the faith in their hearts. We will never forget what FETÖ and its collaborators did, nor will we let it be forgotten. We will always be vigilant against all traitors who seek to undermine the will of our nation. On July 15, the era of coups was buried in history. Our most important duty is not to forget July 15, to ensure it is not forgotten, and to pass on the spirit of national unity and solidarity demonstrated that night to future generations. The brave sons and daughters of our ancient city Erzurum, the land of Dadaşlar, also filled the squares that night, just like all over Turkey, protecting their homeland, flag, and state. Erzurum, with its dignified stance befitting its past, became the strongest voice of national will, democracy, and freedom. I wish Allah's mercy upon our 251 heroes who attained martyrdom on the night of July 15, and healthy and peaceful lives to our veterans. It is our shared responsibility to protect the legacy of our esteemed martyrs and heroic veterans. July 15 is the strongest symbol of our nation's will to protect its freedom and independence. On this occasion, I once again condemn the vile coup attempt that targeted the will of our nation and our democracy, and I congratulate all my fellow citizens and our beloved nation on July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day. I hope that this meaningful day further strengthens our unity, solidarity, and cooperation. On the occasion of July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day, I commemorate with mercy our martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the unity of our homeland and the future of our democracy. I extend my gratitude to our brothers and sisters honored with the title of veteran. - ERZURUM