As Türkiye marks the eighth anniversary of the 15 July 2016 coup attempt, the nation reflects on one of the most significant events in its recent history. The failed coup was a watershed moment, not only for its immediate impact but also for its lasting implications on Türkiye's political, social, and economic landscape.
The Night of the Coup
On the night of 15 July 2016, a faction within the Armed Forces, who are affiliated with Fethullahist Terrorist Organization (FETÖ), attempted to overthrow the legitimate and democratically elected Turkish Government. Tanks rolled onto the streets of major cities, fighter jets roared overhead, and soldiers took control of key infrastructures, including bridges, airports, and media outlets. The coup plotters, ironically claiming "to protect democracy and secularism", faced immediate and fierce resistance from loyal military units, police forces, and, notably, ordinary citizens who heeded President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's leadership and His call to take to the streets.
The night ended with over 250 people dead and more than 2,000 injured. By the morning of 16 July, the Turkish Government had regained control, and the coup attempt was quashed. The images of civilians standing in front of tanks and confronting armed soldiers became iconic symbols of the people's resistance.
Commemoration and Legacy
Each year, 15 July is commemorated as Democracy and National Unity Day in Türkiye. Ceremonies and events are held across the country to honor the heroes who fell for their country and celebrate the resilience of the Turkish Nation. The anniversary serves as a reminder of the robustness of democracy and the importance of vigilance against threats to national sovereignty, stemming from terrorist organizations such as FETÖ.
The fight against FETÖ continues worldwide
The sacrifice of the Turkish Nation ensured victory against the enemies of democracy that night. However, efforts to completely eliminate the FETÖ threat continue all over the world. FETÖ's network had reached throughout more than 160 countries since 1990s, via so-called educational institutions, health centers, business and media outfits. Contrary to their "innocent" and "altruistic" appearance, these institutions are exploited by FETÖ members to undermine the country they have nested for their own interests. Moreover, FETÖ presents an essential threat to the Muslim communities in the countries other than Türkiye, since they abuse the religious sentiments of Muslims who are unaware of their cultist agenda.
Türkiye's fight to disrupt and defeat FETÖ's vile schemes continue unabatedly for long time. Thanks to these efforts, the whole world is much more sensitive and conscious about FETÖ than in the past. The awareness on FETÖ by friendly countries strengthened the cooperation between Turkish Government and their governments and this cooperation has led to the either the closure of FETÖ structures or their transfer to Turkish authorities.
Maarif Foundation's efforts
The contributions of Maarif Foundation, the sole entity authorized by the Turkish Government to provide educational services abroad, deserve to be especially lauded in this process, since education is the top priority area and a vital front to defeat FETÖ. Through Maarif Schools, students can access to an official and competent education, on contrary to the questionable education that FETÖ schools offer with questionable staff. In this regard, so far, the Maarif Foundation has achieved to take over 228 schools from FETÖ in 20 countries. Additionally, Maarif Foundation has established 215 new schools around the world. Currently, around 53 thousand students receive education at 443 schools, 1 university and 21 education centers under Maarif Foundation.
The Importance of Türkiye-Nepal Cooperation against FETÖ
Since the coup attempt, Turkish Government has increased its diplomatic efforts to raise the awareness of the Nepalese Government, against FETÖ's presence in the country. By virtue of the cooperation between Turkish and Nepalese authorities, the influence of FETÖ in Nepal was diminished in the past years. We are looking forward to strengthen our cooperation in countering terrorism, especially against FETÖ, with our Nepalese friends in the future as well.
Conclusion
As Türkiye marks the eighth anniversary of the coup attempt, it stands at a crossroads, reflecting on its past and contemplating its future. The events of 15 July 2016 have left an indelible mark on the nation's psyche, serving as a stark reminder of the price of freedom and the enduring spirit of its people. However, the fight of Turkish Nation against FETÖ, which is still lurking in other parts of the world, continues. Thus, we expect friendly countries to support our efforts in eradicating this terrorist organization once and for all.
