Turkish Vice President Dr. Cevdet Yılmaz has called for comprehensive constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening Turkey’s democracy and permanently guard against future coup attempts.
Speaking at the commemorations of Democracy and National Unity Day in Ankara, Yılmaz stated that it is time for Turkey to adopt a people-driven constitution that reflects the national will rather than the legacy of military takeovers or foreign influence.
“Turkey must finally liberate itself from constitutions shaped in the aftermath of coups,” said Yılmaz. “What matters is that it is the people’s constitution, made by the nation itself.”
Yılmaz underscored that no single party or political bloc can shape such a constitution alone, highlighting the necessity for a broad national consensus. He asserted that the new constitution must be inclusive, democratic, and capable of clearly defining institutional roles to ensure effective governance and the protection of civil liberties.
The Vice President noted that elevating Turkey’s democratic standards would not only reinforce the state but also deter any future attempts to undermine the national will.
“With a new constitution and associated reforms, Turkey will become a much stronger democracy,” Yılmaz said. “No one will dare to even think of attacking the national will again. This is the kind of system we must build together.”
He recalled how, on the night of July 15, 2016, key symbols of democratic governance – the Turkish Grand National Assembly and the Presidential Complex – were bombed in a brazen attempt to paralyze the state and silence the voice of the people.
“These institutions were targeted because they represent the national will. That was no accident,” he remarked. “It was a direct assault on democracy.”
Yılmaz also highlighted the government’s continued efforts to eliminate terrorism, particularly the shadow cast by FETÖ – the network accused of orchestrating the failed coup, and bolster national security. He said the trauma of past unrest had pushed Turkey to strengthen its institutions and redirect its resources toward development, peace, and prosperity.
“For decades, terrorism has burdened this country. We are determined to break those chains and turn our energy toward building a stronger and more unified Turkey,” he asserted.
He pointed out that operations once deemed impossible are now being carried out swiftly and effectively, thanks to improved coordination among the judiciary, security forces, intelligence agencies, and civil administration.
“Our institutions have regained their strength. They are fulfilling their true missions,” he stated.
Yılmaz praised Turkey’s justice system for its steadfast response to the coup attempt, reaffirming the country’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
“Justice means facing the consequences of one’s actions,” he stated. “As a state governed by law, Turkey has ensured and will continue to ensure accountability. We want to see justice delivered both at home and abroad.”
He expressed gratitude to the judges who acted courageously during the crisis and commended the professionalism of the security forces and public servants who stood by the nation.
In an emotional speech, Yılmaz paid tribute to the Turkish people who took to the streets to defend their democracy on the night of the coup attempt.
“We lost 253 martyrs and had thousands of injured. May God have mercy on them,” he said. “They took charge of their destiny and stood up for their country. They will never be forgotten.”
He stressed the importance of preserving the national memory of that night and passing it on to future generations, warning that forgetting such moments invites repetition.
Citing the words of the late Bosnian leader Alija Izetbegović—“Do not forget. If you forget, it will happen again” – Yılmaz called for reflection, vigilance, and a collective commitment to building a resilient, democratic future.
“This is the Century of Turkey,” he declared. “A century of peace, unity, and national cohesion. A century of justice, prosperity, and strength. We are determined to build it—and we are already on the path.”
