KARACHI: The Consulate General of the Republic of Türkiye in Karachi on Tuesday held a solemn commemoration ceremony marking July 15 – Democracy and National Unity Day, remembering the victims and honoring the heroes who resisted the attempted coup in Türkiye in 2016.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Cemal Sangu, Consul General of Türkiye in Karachi, reflected on the 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 Fettulahist Terrorist Organization — in other words, 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 not just an attack on the government but on Türkiye’s democracy, freedoms, and way of life. He said that “FETÖ, led by Fethullah Gülen, infiltrated our institutions over decades, using deception and manipulation,” calling it “not only a terrorist organization, but also an espionage organization with a ‘cult’ character.”

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

“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.

Despite the darkness of the night, the Consul General highlighted the unity and strength that followed:

“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 said.

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

He also warned of the lingering danger posed by the network: “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.”

The Consul General called for lasting unity and solidarity, saying:

“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.” In conclusion, he declared: “The July 15th coup attempt 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.”

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

Published in The Daily National Courier, July, 17 2025

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