Ankara, February 17 – Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi delivered a pivotal address at the Governors’ Meeting Program in Ankara, condemning the opposition’s conduct during the parliamentary swearing-in ceremony and outlining the government’s priorities for national security and public order. The Minister’s remarks, made on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, highlighted the importance of national unity and a responsible approach to governance.
Minister Çiftçi Addresses Parliamentary Tensions
Minister Çiftçi expressed strong disapproval of the incidents that occurred during the swearing-in ceremony in the Grand National Assembly, stating, “The regrettable incidents caused by the main opposition party’s deputies during the swearing-in ceremony were unworthy of the dignity of our Grand Assembly, which embodies our national will.” He noted that the deputies later expressed their disapproval of their own actions.
The Minister stressed the need for a responsible and unifying approach in public discourse. “In this process, a responsible language that respects the dignity of our institutions, a mature attitude that strengthens public order, a prudent stance that reinforces the brotherhood of our nation, and principles will be our guiding map. In line with our nation’s expectations, we will continue to serve every single one of the 86 million citizens,” Çiftçi affirmed.
Commitment to a “Terror-Free Turkey”
Çiftçi, a veteran of the Ministry of Interior for 30 years, underscored the dedication of the ministry’s personnel to the peace and security of the nation. He praised the coordinated efforts of the police, gendarmerie, and coast guard in combating various threats, including criminal organizations, gangs, terrorist groups, and drug and human traffickers.
“Thanks to the sacrifices of our security forces, we have achieved significant success in all areas, from criminal organizations to gangs, from terrorist organizations to drug and human traffickers. On this occasion, I wish God’s mercy upon all our martyrs and health and well-being to our veterans. I sincerely thank each of our heroes,” he stated.
The Minister emphasized that Turkey is now in a phase to crown its achievements of the past 40 years with the “Terror-Free Turkey” initiative. “With the ‘Terror-Free Turkey’ process, we hope to forever free our country from its shackles. We are at an important stage in this process, which has come this far with the resolute leadership of our President and the strong support of Mr. Devlet Bahçeli, Chairman of the Nationalist Movement Party,” Çiftçi added.
He further assured that the Ministry of Interior will work in close coordination with other institutions to achieve the goals of these efforts, fulfilling its duties and upholding the rule of law under all circumstances. “We will never allow those who attempt to sabotage the process and target the brotherhood of our nation,” he declared.
Combating Drugs, Organized Crime, and Irregular Migration
Minister Çiftçi also highlighted the government’s firm stance against drug trafficking, organized crime, and irregular migration. He stated, “The fight against drugs is one of the most fundamental conditions for securing our future. In this area, we will wage a stronger, more determined struggle. The same will applies to the fight against public order crimes and organized crime groups. God willing, we will strive with determination not to lose even a single child to gangs.” He also reiterated a zero-tolerance policy against gambling and illegal betting, stating, “We will not give an opportunity to those who covet the sweat of our nation.”
Addressing the issue of irregular migration, Çiftçi acknowledged Turkey’s geographical position as an attractive migration route. He stressed the need for careful measures and sustainable policies, asserting that the fight against irregular migration will continue uninterruptedly, “with an understanding that respects human dignity and does not harm our faith values and cultural codes.”
The Minister concluded by emphasizing Turkey’s historical role as a haven for the oppressed. “Anatolia has always been a refuge for the oppressed throughout history. Being a host to immigrants is a fundamental requirement of our faith. Helping the oppressed, regardless of religion, origin, sect, or disposition, is the fundamental policy of our President and the AK Party,” Çiftçi concluded.
