Turkish army must respect separation of powers

4.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 28th Apr 2007

Yesterday's comments by a Turkish army general regarding the current presidential election in which he warned of the military's determination to defend the secular nature of the state has shocked some EU politicians.

Andrew Duff (UK, Liberal Democrat) and Vice-chairman of the parliamentary delegation for relations with Turkey said:

"I am very concerned at the tone and timing of these remarks which suggest a threat to the democratic legitimacy of the country. I hope that they are nothing more than a personal view and do not represent a signal that the military would be prepared to set aside the democratic process in Turkey."

Editors note:

Excerpt of the comments issued yesterday by the Turkish military:

"The problem that emerged in the presidential election process is focused on arguments over secularism. Turkish Armed Forces are concerned about the recent situation. It should not be forgotten that the Turkish Armed Forces are a party in those arguments, and absolute defender of secularism. Also, the Turkish Armed Forces is definitely opposed to those arguments and negative comments. It will display its attitude and action openly and clearly whenever it is necessary. … The Turkish Armed Forces maintain their sound determination to carry out their duties stemming from laws to protect the unchangeable characteristics of the Republic of Turkey. Their loyalty to this determination is absolute."