Ali Babacan Resigns from AKP: I Have Drifted Away Mentally and Emotionally

Click to read the article in Turkish

Former Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Babacan has resigned from the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP).

Babacan, who was among the co-founders of the party, is reportedly preparing to establish a new political party with 11th President Abdullah Gül. In his statement, where he has announced his resignation, Babacan has also referred to their ongoing preparations for a new party.

'Deep discrepancies have arisen'

In the introduction to his statement, Babacan has indicated that he has been the Central Executive Committee member of the AKP for 14 years and emphasized, "Within this period, I was honored to contribute to the great successes achieved by our country." He has continued as follows:

"However, over the last years, there have emerged deep discrepancies between the practices introduced in several fields and the principles, values and opinions I believe. I have drifted away both mentally and emotionally.

"In the meanwhile, Turkey was faced with new restrictions. The world has changed quickly. We now have dynamic, new generations in our country who are promising for a bright future and have completely different expectations.

"Under the current circumstances, there is a need for a brand new vision for the future of Turkey. There is a need for right analyses and newly thought up strategies, plans and programs for our country. Our negotiations with a great variety of circles confirm that as well.

'Setting about a new work is inevitable'

"Setting about a new work for the present and future of Turkey is inevitable. I and my several friends feel a great historical responsibility for such a work.

"I believe that the resolution of the problems that we are faced with is only possible with a large cadre that has a high representative power. We have to work together and aim for common sense. It is of great importance that our work is conducted in an independent and free manner."

Concluding his remarks, Babacan has explained his reasons for resignation in following words: "When these justifications are taken into account, the continuation of my co-founding membership at Justice and Development Parti, unfortunately, does not seem possible. As of today, I have submitted my petition of resignation to the party central office." (AÖ/SD)