Turks protest against Abdullah Gul's candidature for presidential post

PanARMENIAN.Net - On April 24 protest actions were held in Ankara against Abdullah Gul's candidature for the presidential post of Turkey. Protesters carrying portraits of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk gathered near Chankaya palace, the presidential residence. They chanted "We want a president loyal to Atatürk's principles". Drivers passing by signaled expressing their support to protesters. The first group of protesters dispersed after warnings of police, after which another group of protesters gathered near Chankaya. Representatives of non-governmental organizations also expressed their support for secular system in Turkey. 14 activists have been detained. Protesting against actions of riot police some participants of demonstration chanted, "If it is a crime to hold the banner of Turkey, arrest us!"



Another group of people in Kugulu Park chanted slogans like "Ways of Chankaya are closed for shariat!" One more protest was held in the Golden Crescent Square, where people chanted slogans against the ruling Justice and Development party, Abdullah Gul and the United States. Protesters who lined up in front of cordons of riot police stated that Gul's candidature does not meet the will of people and it may increase tension in the society, APA reports.



On April 24 Turkish Prime Minister Recep Erdogan offered Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul's candidature for the presidential post from Justice and Development party.