Yapıcıoğlu addressed party members and citizens with direct and heartfelt statements during the event, which was organised to introduce HÜDA PAR's mayoral candidates for various regions ahead of the local elections on 31 March 2024.

In his speech, he drew attention to the ongoing atrocities in Gaza and expressed concern about the diminishing international response, particularly from Islamic countries.

"It is disheartening to see the world turning a blind eye to the ongoing massacre in Gaza. We cannot allow this crisis to fade from our collective consciousness. We must continue to raise our voices for justice and stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people," said Yapıcıoğlu.

Explaining the importance of the Gaza issue, Yapıcıoğlu shared personal anecdotes, saying: "I have spoken to families affected by the conflict and their stories are heartbreaking. We must not forget that behind the headlines and statistics, there are real people suffering unimaginable hardship. As a global community, we have a moral obligation to act.

Amid discussions about the upcoming local elections, Yapıcıoğlu shared his vision with the audience, stating: "In local administrations, services are produced for the public. Our policy is human-centred and our goal is to realise justice. First people, first justice".

"I believe that serving the people is at the heart of politics. We are here to protect the rights and honour of each individual. Our principles of municipalism revolve around transparent governance and responsible resource management," Yapıcıoğlu emphasised.

Yapıcıoğlu expressed his frustration with the current state of public property protection in local governments, adding: "We have seen far too many cases where public property is not adequately protected. It's time for a change. Elected representatives should prioritise the welfare of citizens above all else."

With the local elections less than two and a half months away, Yapıcıoğlu urged citizens to consider their choices carefully. "Your vote matters. Choose representatives who prioritise justice and responsible governance. We need leaders who truly care about the people they serve."

Returning to the crisis in Gaza, Yapıcıoğlu spoke about the role of the international community: "We must hold accountable those responsible for the ongoing atrocities in Gaza. Silence and inaction are not an option. It's the responsibility of leaders, both regionally and globally, to act in the face of such blatant human rights violations".

The event, which began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, aimed to introduce HUDA PAR's mayoral candidates for Van, Bitlis, Ağrı, İpekyolu, Tuşba, Muradiye, Hani, Karlıova, Dargeçit, Kovancılar and Arıcak.

In conclusion, Yapıcıoğlu pledged to keep the Gaza crisis at the top of the political agenda and vowed to ensure that the ongoing atrocities receive the global attention and condemnation they deserve.

The programme concluded with renewed calls for justice and transparency in governance, reflecting HÜDA PAR's commitment to serving the public interest and actively participating in addressing global humanitarian concerns. (ILKHA)