Turkish government slams main opposition deputy for expecting Biden to focus on Turkish democracy

Duvar English 

Ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) spokesperson Ömer Çelik has slammed a main opposition deputy for expecting U.S. President-elect Joe Biden to focus on democracy in Turkey. 

"The fact that Ünal Çeviköz requests democracy from foreign authorities is troubling," Çelik said on Nov. 22 in response to main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) deputy Ünal Çeviköz's remarks at an online conference. 

Çeviköz on Nov. 20 said that the CHP's first expectation from the Biden administration "is to put a very strong emphasis on the rule of law, democracy, de-politicization of the judiciary, the separation of powers." 

Democracy, rule of law, and fundamental rights and freedoms are important for both Biden and the CHP, he said. 

Noting that Biden could ask Turkey to introduce democratic reforms and fundamental rights and freedoms such as press freedom, and freedom of expression and association, Çeviköz added that the President-elect should take steps to further develop the trade relations between Washington and Ankara.

His remarks drew a harsh rebuke from AKP ranks, with Çelik saying that Çeviköz's understanding of democracy is "import democracy." 

"This understanding is trying to obtain legitimacy from foreign authorities. To do so is shameful. This mindset is on an illegitimate path by complaining about his own country and seeking help from others," Çelik said. 

"Our democracy and security are not matters of political negotiation," he added.