45 years ago, all politicians arrested during the coup later returned to power: Democracy must prevail in elections.

Axar.az reports that Professor Ilber Ortayli, a prominent figure in Turkish academia, shared his views on the recent arrest of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Chairman (IBB) Ekrem İmamoğlu. He emphasized that the Turkish people have not forgotten the disrespect shown to the election process and elected officials, recalling the time when politicians like Süleyman Demirel, Bülent Ecevit, and Deniz Baykal were arrested during a coup 45 years ago, only to return to power later. "Our people never forget when the election box and the chosen ones are disrespected; they respond at the first opportunity," Ortayli said. "Years pass, yet the methods remain unchanged. We are living through historic days again. The people are watching the chosen administrators and the votes cast in the election box, sending a clear message: those who come through elections should leave through elections."

Ortayli also addressed the growing concerns of Turkish youth, noting the increased political polarization and uncertainty affecting their future. He pointed out that the growing political divide, despite being legally acceptable in some ways, has fostered local partisanship and nepotism in the country. "Today, society is tense, and young people are anxious about their future," Ortayli said. "Increasing political polarization brings up the question 'What will become of me?' in the minds of young people. The country’s political life is limited to municipalities and the central government, and this regionalism, while appearing lawful, is rooted in excessive local partisanship and a strong network of family connections."

Ortayli also raised concerns for the youth who have studied abroad or in other cities, learning foreign languages and seeking opportunities. "What will happen to the efforts, hopes, and rights of these children? The future of young people must be secured. The bureaucracy and judicial system must regain public trust. There’s no need to wait for a major crisis for this to happen. Necessary regulations and reforms should be implemented immediately," he added.

He emphasized that this issue goes beyond political parties or the government and should be considered a national matter. "The future of our children and young people is at risk, and this is a collective responsibility for all of us," Ortayli concluded.