The first standard-bearer of the Turkish Resistance Organization, Colonel Ali Rıza Vuruşkan, was commemorated on Thursday on the 45th anniversary of his death.
A ceremony was held for Vuruşkan at the TMT Freedom Fighters Association in Lefkoşa.
Following the speeches at the ceremony, medals were also presented to individuals who served in the national struggle.
Colonel Ali Rıza Vuruşkan, the first commander of the Turkish Resistance Organization, was commemorated in a ceremony held at the TMT Freedom Fighters Association in Lefkoşa on the 45th anniversary of his death.
The ceremony which began with the observance of a moment’s silence followed by the national anthem was attended by President Ersin Tatar, the Speaker of the Republic’s Assembly Zorlu Töre, the Commander of the Cyprus Turkish Security Forces Major General Osman Aytaç, former freedom fighters, their families, military, and other officials.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Tatar drew attention to the existence of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), emphasizing the significant roles played by the heroes of the Turkish Resistance Organization in ensuring the freedom and security of the Turkish Cypriot people.
The Speaker of the Republic’s Assembly Zorlu Töre, in his speech, pointed out the hardships faced by the Turkish Cypriot people “The Republic we created is our greatest celebration. Yes, let there be peace in the world and in Cyprus, but there is no giving up sovereignty, independence, or our motherland.”
Töre emphasized that it was out of the question for the Turkish Cypriot side to abandon their state, Türkiye’s guarantees or presence of the Turkish armed forces.
He also noted that the Turkish Cypriot people will continue their path with confidence with the support of their motherland Türkiye, the heroic Turkish army, and the resistance spirit of the TMT.
Celal Bayar, the President of the Cyprus TMT Freedom Fighters’ Association, emphasized that Ali Rıza Vuruşkan was a legendary commander of the TMT.
“The 20th of July 1974, Turkish Peace Operation brought us peace, freedom, and paved the way for the sovereignty of our state. There can be no turning back now,” he said.