On the ninth anniversary of the failed 15 July 2016 coup attempt, HÜDA PAR (Free Cause Party) issued a statement on Tuesday, celebrating the heroic resistance of Türkiye’s people and condemning efforts to politicize the nation’s collective victory.

The party described the event as a defining moment of unity and faith, underscoring the Turkish people’s courage in confronting a treacherous, imperialist-backed uprising.

In its statement, HÜDA PAR denounced the 2016 coup attempt as an attack not only on the elected government but on the will, beliefs, and future of the Turkish nation. The party lauded the bravery of ordinary citizens who, unarmed, faced tanks, bombs, and bullets to defeat the coup plotters. “This victory cannot be claimed by any individual political ideology or group. It belongs to the entire nation,” the statement emphasized, highlighting the collective resolve that secured Türkiye’s sovereignty.

HÜDA PAR sharply criticized attempts by certain political factions to appropriate the 15 July victory for partisan purposes, accusing them of alienating the nation’s core values. “It is unfortunate that some attempt to write this victory in their own household, rather than acknowledge the Muslim people’s resistance,” the party declared, warning that such actions betray the spirit of the historic resistance.

The party also raised concerns about what it called a “new version of putschists,” groups that undermine the significance of the people’s resistance by attacking their Islamic faith or reframing the narrative with outdated coup mentalities. HÜDA PAR stressed the need to preserve the true legacy of 15 July, ensuring that the nation’s unity and resolve remain a bulwark against future coup or occupation attempts.

In a solemn close, HUDA PAR offered prayers for the martyrs of 15 July, honoring their sacrifice and expressing hope that Türkiye’s faith and unity would endure for generations. “Our supplication from our Lord is that our nation’s faith and unity be perpetuated, and that these lands never again witness such dark attempts,” the statement concluded.

The 15 July 2016 coup attempt, orchestrated by the Fetullahist Terrorist Organization (FETO), saw rogue military elements attempt to overthrow the government, bombing parliament and seizing key infrastructure. The plot was foiled by mass civilian resistance, inspired by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s call to action, resulting in over 250 deaths and thousands injured.

HÜDA PAR’s message joins nationwide commemorations of Democracy and National Unity Day, a testament to Türkiye’s resilience in defending its democracy and sovereignty. (ILKHA)