103 Years of Faith, Continuing with the Same Determination

The Bornova Branch of the Association for Atatürkist Thought (ADD) celebrated October 29 Republic Day with a festive reception hosted by Bornova Municipality. Held at the Dr. Sırrı Aydoğan Cultural Center and attended by numerous guests, the evening emphasized an unwavering commitment to the founding values of the Republic and democracy. Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki and ADD Bornova Branch President Haydar Karakuş reaffirmed their determination to carry Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s reforms forward to future generations.

The Bornova Branch of the Association for Atatürkist Thought (ADD) marked October 29 Republic Day with a special reception hosted by Bornova Municipality. The event, held at the Dr. Sırrı Aydoğan Cultural Center, brought together association members and many distinguished guests, including Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki, Yeni Parti Bornova District Chair Mübeccel Timaç, former Bornova Mayor Olgun Atila, and Rahşan Nazlıoğlu, a member of the Central Executive Board of Yeni Parti’s Women's Branch. The captivating performance by Ege University’s Vienna Waltz Ensemble also added a special touch to the evening.

Mayor Eşki: “We Stand Firmly Behind the Enduring Values of Our Republic”

Speaking at the reception, Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki highlighted the importance of passing on the meaning and significance of the Republic to future generations. Noting that we are living through a period in which the values of the Republic must be protected, Eşki stated that different segments of society are embracing these values with strong determination.

Mayor Eşki said:

“Every year, ahead of October 29, Republic Day—one of the most special days for us—we make a point of coming together and reminding one another of its meaning and significance. What matters is demonstrating that this belief and resilience remain strong even after 103 years. Our Republic may face difficult challenges at certain times, and its founding values may come under pressure. However, the time has come for people who believe in the Republic, democracy, and the rule of law to come together and fight with determination. Looking at everything from bar association elections to the general public response, we can see just how strong the Atatürkist spirit remains at the grassroots level. This gives me great hope. We will continue, without hesitation, to explain to society that Mustafa Kemal’s reforms are non-negotiable and that the Republic is a virtue, and we will continue serving these principles with unwavering commitment.”

ADD President Karakuş: “We Have Made Defending the Republic Our Life’s Purpose”

In his speech, ADD Bornova Branch President Haydar Karakuş drew attention to the Republic’s 103-year history and the importance of defending this legacy. Karakuş emphasized that, regardless of whether their numbers are large or small, everyone shares the responsibility of keeping faith in the Republic alive and working to pass it on to future generations. Noting that the public’s commitment to the Republic comes to the fore whenever the fundamental values of Türkiye face any form of intervention, Karakuş expressed his belief that the large community following in the footsteps of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk would preserve this legacy forever. He concluded by thanking everyone who attended.