The tragedy resulting from the deadly catamaran sinking off the coast of Kyrenia also triggered a major political upheaval in the occupied territories. The discovery of a new victim triggered rapid political developments, leading to the dismissal of the so-called Minister of Transportation, Erhan Arikli, and leaving the so-called government with a razor-thin majority.
The death toll stands at nine, with 19 still missing
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
On a human level, the tragedy continues for the fifth consecutive day, with the victims’ relatives waiting anxiously outside the so-called General Hospital in occupied Nicosia for identification via DNA samples. Late last night, the body of 50-year-old Ismail Kurt was identified, bringing the number of confirmed deaths to nine, while 19 people remain missing.
Read more: “I want her body—at least so she can have a grave”: A thriller to locate the missing from the ill-fated catamaran
The atmosphere of grief quickly turned to anger directed at those responsible, with relatives demanding immediate explanations from Erhan Arikli, under whose authority the vessel operated. Sensing the weight of his responsibilities, Mr. Arikli had stated earlier that, should legal or judicial liability arise, “he would request the lifting of his immunity” so that the authorities could act unimpeded. However, he did not have time to do so; just a few minutes after he stated that there was no question of dissolving the government, the so-called Prime Minister Ünal Ustel proceeded to immediately dismiss him.
Ustel Wins by a Narrow Margin
Erhan Arikli’s response was immediate. Following an emergency meeting of his party, he announced his definitive withdrawal from the “government” coalition, even sending a warning that “he will return stronger”. This departure deprives the ruling coalition of two seats in the so-called parliament, reducing its total from 28 to 26 out of a total of 50. This is an extremely fragile balance, where the loss of even a single vote completely paralyzes the ability to make decisions.
Read more: Oustel ousted Arikli: “Whoever is responsible will be held accountable”
Arikli’s dismissal does not seem to be appeasing public discontent, as attention and criticism are now directed squarely at Ounal Oustel himself. In the occupied territories, reports and voices are multiplying that claim “it’s Ustel’s turn,” with scenarios of a complete collapse and early elections gaining momentum by the hour.
