Devlet Bahçeli, General President of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), said Turkey's direction is clear following the adoption of the ‘Süreç Yasası’ (Process Law).
The statement marks a critical pivot for the MHP, a party traditionally known for its hardline stance on security. By framing peace as a strategic goal rather than a surrender, Bahçeli is signaling a calculated approach to resolving long-standing internal conflicts while maintaining nationalist credentials.
Bahçeli issued the written statement amid events at the Alparslan Türkeş Political Academy and a parliamentary group meeting in the Grand National Assembly [2, 3]. He said that the path toward a terror-free Turkey must be grounded in law and stability.
"Barış taviz değildir," Bahçeli said [1].
The MHP leader said that while the legislation provides a framework, the implementation of legal measures should not be rushed. He said that the government and legislature must ensure all steps are legally sound before proceeding.
"Aceleye getirmenin alemi yok; hukuki adımlar atılacaktır," Bahçeli said [3].
These comments come as Turkey monitors regional volatility, specifically the current situation in Iran. Bahçeli said that external pressures and regional developments necessitate a measured domestic approach to ensure the process is not compromised by haste [1, 3].
Beyond the legislative process, the party recently marked its 57th founding anniversary [2]. During these celebrations, Bahçeli said that the legal framework must be robust to support the state's objectives.
"Yasal düzenlemeler yapılmalı," Bahçeli said [2].
The MHP continues to hold significant influence over the governing coalition, making Bahçeli's endorsement of the Process Law a prerequisite for its success in the Grand National Assembly.
“"Barış taviz değildir."”
The MHP's shift toward supporting a structured 'process' for peace indicates a strategic realignment within Turkey's ruling coalition. By insisting that peace is not a 'concession,' Bahçeli is attempting to neutralize nationalist opposition to the Process Law. The emphasis on avoiding haste suggests that the MHP intends to maintain strict oversight of the legal parameters, ensuring that any resolution to terror-related conflicts does not undermine state authority or succumb to regional instability.
