Tuncer Bakırhan, the co-chair of Turkey’s pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, called for countering every illegitimate voter with two legitimate ones to safeguard the democratic process in Turkey during a campaign event in Beytüşşebap (Elke) district of the Kurdish-majority southeastern Şırnak (Şirnex) province on Friday.
Bakırhan made a call to action against what he claims are government attempts to manipulate electoral outcomes in Kurdish-majority areas. Addressing a crowd at the inauguration of a new party office, Bakırhan pointed out discrepancies in voter registrations, alleging the addition of ‘phantom voters’ to electoral rolls.
“This land, historically resilient against invaders, remains impenetrable to electoral manipulation,” Bakırhan asserted, drawing on the rich history of resistance in the region. He emphasised the significance of Beytüşşebap, located in the heart of Botan, and expressed his belief in overcoming what he described as oppressive governance through democratic means in the upcoming elections on 31 March.
Bakırhan raised concerns over the apparent increase in registered voters at certain addresses, accusing the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) of artificially inflating voter numbers by transferring individuals from other regions. “We are faced with an illegitimate attempt to undermine our will. For every illegitimate voter, we shall counter with two legitimate ones,” he declared, signalling a strategy to bolster genuine voter turnout.
In his speech, Bakırhan also highlighted the broader struggles faced by the Kurdish community, including cultural suppression and an overwhelming security presence. He called for a shift in government investment towards community development rather than security and surveillance. “Our fight is for the recognition of our mother tongue and the democratic rights of our people. We advocate for development, for factories to replace police stations,” he stated.