Kenan Evren's Start of Presidency

Historical Significance and Background

The beginning of Kenan Evren's presidency coincided with a period when Evren, the leader of the September 12, 1980 coup, was elected as the 7th President of Turkey. This event is one of the most important political turning points in Turkey's recent history.

The 1980s were a very complex and challenging period for Turkey. Political instability, terrorist incidents, and economic problems had been increasing since the late 1970s. Under these conditions, the people sought security and stability.

The September 12, 1980 coup took place in this atmosphere of instability and chaos. The Turkish Armed Forces, under the leadership of Kenan Evren, established a military administration, overthrew the government, and imposed martial law on the country. With Kenan Evren becoming the President after the coup, a new era began.

Development of the Event

Execution of the Coup

On September 12, 1980, a coup led by the Turkish Armed Forces established a military administration under the leadership of Kenan Evren. The government was overthrown, the constitution was suspended, and martial law was declared. This coup was one of the bloodiest and most effective coups in Turkey's recent history.

Preparation of the New Constitution

The military administration, under the leadership of Kenan Evren, prepared a new constitution for Turkey. The new constitution, which was approved by a referendum in 1982, is still in effect in Turkey. This constitution increased the power and authority of the military administration and restricted democratic rights and freedoms.

Assuming the Presidency

Kenan Evren assumed the role of the 7th President of the Republic of Turkey on November 9, 1982. As the President, Evren held the highest office in the country as the leader of the military administration. His term continued until 1989.

Consequences and Effects

Short-Term Effects

The September 12 coup and Kenan Evren's presidency led to many changes in Turkey in the short term. Political purges carried out under martial law resulted in the arrest and torture of thousands of people. Press freedom was restricted, political parties and trade unions were closed down or rendered ineffective.

Long-Term Results

The September 12 coup and the era of Kenan Evren left long-lasting effects on Turkey's political and social structure. The neoliberal economic policies that started after the coup played a significant role in Turkey's economic transformation. At the same time, there was a deep division in the social structure and politics, and polarization increased.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present

Kenan Evren's presidency is a significant turning point in Turkey's recent history. This period signifies a setback in Turkey's struggle for democracy and human rights. The effects of the coup are still felt and discussed today. The era of Kenan Evren's presidency left a deep mark on Turkey's political and social structure.

Today, the September 12 coup and the era of Kenan Evren are still subjects of debate. The events and decisions during this period play an important role in understanding the political and social problems in present-day Turkey. Additionally, the human rights violations and social traumas experienced during this period have become a source of inspiration for the pursuit of justice and the struggle for democracy today.

The September 12 coup and the era of Kenan Evren are considered a dark chapter in Turkey's history. This period gains importance with the lessons learned to understand the challenges Turkey has faced in terms of democracy and human rights and to prevent its recurrence in the future.