Bishop: Turkish riots not a replay of ‘Arab Spring’
June 04, 2013
Riots in Turkey against Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s authoritarian regime are not a replay of the Arab Spring, according to the apostolic vicar of Istanbul.
“One cannot see a real political alternative to the ruling party, which remains strong and has the support of the majority of the population,” said Bishop Louis Pelâtre, who called upon Erdogan to moderate his increasing support of Islamist elements.
“Protests could push the government to review its strategies,” the prelate added. “Erdogan has so far yielded space to Islamist groups, but in his own party there are other forces and other sensitivities. The basis of his consent is wider than the Islamist forces, and he needs the support of all to continue to govern.”
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Further information:
- Bishop Pelatre with regards to the riots: the prospect of compromise seems to have the upper hand (Fides)
- Defiant Erdogan denounces riots in Turkish cities (Reuters)
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