Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan led a solemn ceremony at the Anitkabir mausoleum in Ankara today, marking the 85th anniversary of the passing of the revered statesman, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The commemorative event commenced at 08:50 with a ceremonial procession of high-ranking officials, including President Erdogan, along the Aslanli Yol Alley (Lion Road) leading to the Ataturk Mausoleum, TuraNews.kz reports.
Among the dignitaries present were Numan Kurtulmuş, Chairman of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye, members of the Cabinet of Ministers, Özgür Özel, leader of the Republican People’s Party (RPP), Devlet Bahçeli, head of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), Meral Akşener, leader of the İYİ Party, as well as heads of the highest judicial bodies, commanders of military branches, and representatives of various political parties.
President Erdogan paid tribute to Atatürk by laying a wreath of red and white carnations at the tomb of the Turkish Republic’s founder. At precisely 09:05, the moment of Ataturk’s passing, those in attendance observed a minute of silence in remembrance, followed by the playing of the Turkish Republic anthem.
Subsequently, the assembled guests proceeded to the Misak-i-Milli Tower, where President Erdogan made an entry in the Book of Honored Guests, expressing heartfelt sentiments:
“Dear Ataturk, on the 85th anniversary of your passing, we once again respectfully honor your memory and that of your comrades. We diligently work today, as we have for 21 years, to strengthen and uphold our Republic, proudly entering its second century with the vision of the ‘Türkiye Century.’
We continue to celebrate the Republic of Türkiye as the beacon of hope for the oppressed, the sanctuary for the homeless, and a source of pride for its citizens across all domains. No force can hinder the progress of Türkiye, the realization of the ‘Turkish Century,’ and the fulfillment of our nation’s age-old aspirations. May your soul rest in peace.”
