The late leader of the Republican Turkish Party Özker Özgür and the late Secretary General of the National Unity Party Salih Miroğlu were remembered today on the 16th anniversary of their deaths.
The two had passed away on the same day 16 years ago.
The ceremonies were attended by President Ersin Tatar, the Speaker of Parliament Zorlu Töre, former President Mehmet Ali Talat ministers, MPs, the leader of the main opposition Republican Turkish Party (CTP)Tufan Erhürman, representatives of political parties, friends and family.
The first ceremony was held for Özker Özgür who served both as Deputy Prime Minister and the leader of the Republican Turkish Party as well as deputy at the TRNC legislative assembly.
He was also the founding member of the United Cyprus Party.
Speaking during the first ceremony, President Tatar said that the late Özker Özgür was a very valuable person for him.
Sharing a memoir, Tatar said, “He was very important for us. He was a staunch supporter of peace, known for his politeness and kindness. He was a great politician.”
A similar ceremony was held shortly afterwards for the late politician Salih Miroğlu who had served as the General Secretary of the National Unity Party (UBP) and as a cabinet minister.
Also speaking there, President Ersin Tatar said that the late Miroğlu was admired and loved by all.
“He will always be remembered in our hearts,” the president added.
The ceremony ended with flowers being placed on Miroğlu’s grave.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Ünal Üstel issued a message in memory of the late politicians.
“Dr Salih Miroğlu had served his country and party devotedly. He was loved by everyone and can never be replaced. Mr Özker Özgür was also a significant figure, a great educator and an enlightened politician. We remember both with respect,” he said in his message.