The Turkish Republic’s Founding: An Unforgettable Celebration
Did you know that all members of the Turkish Grand National Assembly shouted “Long live the Republic” three times? Among them was Mehmed Emin Bey, the deputy of Karahisar-ı Şarki, standing at the pulpit.
The focus was on a constitutional amendment, with the first article proposing: “Sovereignty unconditionally belongs to the nation… The administration method is based on the principle of the people managing their own destiny directly and actively… The form of government of the Turkish state is a Republic.”
This session when Mehmed Emin Bey took the stand was significant, happening today.
Defining the Republic
Starting with a historical perspective, Mehmed Emin Bey delves into the past, discussing Rome, Caesar, gladiator arenas, debauchery, and tyrants. He describes a need for a divine government to correct pride and greed, to institute justice with power and authority. This divine system, established by a great prophet wielding a sword and a staff, is what we now know as the Republic.
Applause filled the room as Mehmed Emin Bey continued his speech.
Fourteen Centuries Later
Mehmed Emin Bey reflects on the passage of fourteen centuries, emphasizing that Allah has chosen the Turkish nation to establish a divine government once again. The Turkish nation, like Prophet Muhammad in Mecca centuries ago, has now founded a government in Ankara.
His words are meticulously recorded in the Turkish Grand National Assembly records, reflecting a historic moment in time.
With his final words, Mehmed Emin Bey invokes a blessing on the government, expressing a desire for justice and light to shine equally on all, before leading the assembly in three resounding cheers of “Long live the Republic.”
Who is this Deputy?
Mehmet Emin Yurdakul, known as the “National Poet,” was a pioneer of the national literature movement. Initially a deputy of Karahisar-ı Şarki, he later served as a deputy in Istanbul.
Reflecting on his legacy, a poem of his is shared:
“I am a Turk; my religion and race are noble;
My heart and soul are filled with fire.
The child of a nation is a servant to his homeland;
A Turk’s son cannot sit still at home.”
Remembering Rahşan Ecevit
Rahşan Ecevit, the wife of former Prime Minister Bülent Ecevit, hailed from Şebinkarahisar. Despite efforts to elevate the town to a city, it remained an unresolved issue due to the implications for other regions.
Looking back at historical events and individuals tied to the Republic’s founding, we pay homage to Niğde, the city that celebrated the Republic’s proclamation with cannon fire on October 29, 1923.
As we commemorate the Republic Day with fervor, reflecting on past criticisms and the words of Atatürk in the Assembly, we send our regards to Niğde and conclude for today.
