Turkey requires a decentralised system to achieve democratic and fair governance, according to pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party Co-Chair Tuncer Bakırhan. Speaking at the ‘Democratic Local Governance Workshop’ organised by the DEM Party’s Local Governance Council on Saturday, Bakırhan emphasised the importance of democratic, transparent and community-oriented municipal governance.
The DEM co-chair criticised Turkey’s centralised governance, arguing it fails to provide democratic and fair governance: “Turkey’s centralised approach is insufficient. We need a decentralised system to enhance local democracy and better represent diverse communities and identities.” He suggested that decentralisation would be more effective in protecting democratic rights and ensuring fair representation.
Bakırhan also highlighted problems caused by appointed trustee administrators, particularly during the Justice and Development Party (AKP) era, pointing to how trustees “failed to collect debts and misused municipal funds, creating significant financial burdens on municipalities”. He claimed that the debts and mismanagement by trustees led to inadequate services for citizens and argued that these corrupt practices should be addressed before dealing with legitimate municipal debts.
Criticising current tax policies, Bakırhan pointed to incentives received by pro-government media outlets while the poorest citizens are burdened with additional taxes. “This administration prioritises the wealthy and powerful over ordinary citizens. It’s a moral failure of our justice system,” he said.
Promoting a community-focused, democratic and transparent approach to municipal governance, Bakırhan argued that centralised systems obstruct such ideals: “Centralisation fosters corruption and wastefulness. A decentralised approach would better support democratic practices and effective use of municipal resources.”
The strengthening of local democracy and protection of cultural rights is vital, he added, calling for municipalities to support local culture and language through various activities and events. “Involving the public in decision-making processes ensures that local governance reflects the needs and rights of its citizens,” he said.
“Leveraging local dynamics and resources can lead to better services,” Bakırhan said, citing historical examples of public collaboration and community-based resistance efforts in overcoming obstacles and restrictions imposed by central government.
