Zekeriya Yapıcıoğlu, leader of Free Cause Party (HÜDA PAR), unveiled a sweeping reform agenda during a press conference in Kayseri on Monday, addressing constitutional change, economic relief, social challenges, and foreign policy.

Speaking to journalists, he called for a new "people’s constitution," urgent economic measures, and a robust response to social issues, while outlining Türkiye’s role in a post-Assad Syria.

Yapıcıoğlu described constitutional reform as the "mother of all political debates," criticising the 1982 constitution, drafted under military rule, as outdated. He advocated for a collaborative process involving all 16 parliamentary parties to create a "social contract" reflecting modern Türkiye. He stressed that any new constitution must face a nationwide referendum to ensure democratic legitimacy, warning against unchangeable provisions that could stifle future amendments.

Rejecting speculation about a return to autocratic governance, Yapıcıoğlu reaffirmed HUDA PAR’s commitment to republican values. "Governance must be by consent, not divine right or autocracy," he said, vowing to oppose any moves toward a sultanate-style regime.

On the economy, Yapıcıoğlu highlighted the strain of 35% annual inflation, noting a "hunger threshold" of 25,000 TL (£600) for a family of four and 32,000 TL (£760) for a single adult. He proposed raising the minimum pension to at least 12,000 TL (£285), aligning it with the minimum wage and indexing it to real inflation. He also called for a 40% interim wage increase for public sector workers to counter rising food and housing costs, dismissing the government’s current plans as inadequate.

Yapıcıoğlu raised alarm over a growing drug epidemic among Türkiye’s youth, citing estimates that 8 million young people have experimented with substances. He shared poignant stories of addiction’s toll, including teens unable to recognise family members. He urged the creation of an inter-ministerial task force, involving the Interior, Health, Education, and Family Ministries, alongside schools and NGOs, to launch prevention programmes, expand counselling centres, and offer rehabilitation to reduce prison overcrowding.

Yapıcıoğlu announced plans for a bill to curb the public "normalisation" of sexual behaviours HUDA PAR believes undermine family values. "We are not against individual freedom," he clarified, "but children must be protected from exposure to lifestyles conflicting with our ethical norms." He framed the proposal as essential to safeguarding the family unit and national identity.

On foreign policy, Yapıcıoğlu welcomed the collapse of Syria’s Baathist regime but stressed the need for inclusive governance to ensure lasting peace. He called for political representation and security for all Syrian communities—Arabs, Kurds, Druze, Alawites, Christians, and Sunnis. Türkiye, he said, should work with international partners under UN supervision to support democratic elections, institution-building, and the safe return of refugees.

Concluding his remarks, Yapıcıoğlu urged political parties to unite for the national good, setting aside partisan differences. "Whether it’s a new constitution, economic justice, or shaping our region’s future, we succeed only when we act together," he said, appealing for a shared commitment to Türkiye’s welfare.

Official statements from HÜDA PAR detailing the proposed policies are expected soon. The party’s ambitious agenda is likely to spark debate as Türkiye navigates a complex political and economic landscape. (ILKHA)