Major turning point with the 2025 presidential election in NZ?
- Samira Sinjab
- 4 hours ago
- 4 min read
Could this also be a game changer on the Cyprus issue? A new chapter begins...
Something is moving on this island. Not loud, not dramatic—more like a subtle change in tone, a different light on the familiar streets of Lefkoşa.
Whatever one's position, this change marks the beginning of a new conversation about the country's future.
🗳️ A clear mandate – and many expectations
With a clear election result of around 62.8 percent, the Social Democrat and lawyer Tufan Erhürman was elected to the highest office.
He is no stranger: former prime minister, university lecturer, a consistent voice for the rule of law and social justice for years.
His message after the victory was simple but remarkable:
"I'm no longer just the party leader. I'm the president of all citizens."
A sentence that should have an impact across party lines – even on those who could not vote, but who live, work, invest here and want a stable, reliable future for Northern Cyprus.
🌍 Between Ankara, Nicosia and the world
Erhürman's foreign policy stance is nuanced: close coordination with Turkey, but at the same time self-confidence in his own position.
This balance is crucial – not only for diplomacy, but also for the trust of international partners, investors and the growing expat community that has settled in Northern Cyprus in recent years.
In a region where political signals often have direct economic consequences, Erhürman's approach – dialogue-oriented but steadfast – could create new stability.
His stated goal: to position Northern Cyprus as a reliable, constructive actor that builds bridges instead of drawing borders.
🕊️ The Cyprus question – from standstill to possible movement
The heart of his election manifesto remains the Cyprus issue.
Erhürman adheres to the idea of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation with political equality for both sides.
He calls for new talks – but only under clear conditions:
• Equal rights for Turkish Cypriots
• binding schedule
• Recognition of progress already made
• no return to the status quo in case of further failure
In doing so, he clearly positions himself between those who accept permanent division and those who push for complete reunification.
Erhürman wants a practical solution that brings peace, security and international openness – also economically.
His position seems to be resonating and being heard in the south of the island. Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides congratulated Tufan Erhürman on his election ( see Cyprusmail ). He also expressed hope for a renewed dialogue and willingness to engage in dialogue. This communication is new, as there were no official congratulations from the south during Ersin Tatar's 2020 election.
For expats, entrepreneurs and investors, a rapprochement or even normalization with the EU and the South would be an absolute game changer.
Greater legal clarity, easier border crossings, joint energy projects, and trade agreements could completely revitalize the market. There's even talk of recognizing Ercan Airport and jointly developing the sealed-off city of Varosha. What development potential for the island...
🏛️ Presidency as a moral office
Internally, Erhürman wants to lead the presidency in a “neutral and serving” manner.
His program speaks of transparency, meritocracy (opportunities and rewards based on performance), the rule of law, and a clear end to clientelism.
He calls for appointments to be made on the basis of competence and for the presidency to become an open platform for civil society, education, culture and the economy.
For many who have chosen Northern Cyprus as their new home in recent years – whether as entrepreneurs, freelancers or retirees – this sounds like a strong signal of predictability.
Reliable, fair management is the foundation of any long-term investment.
💡 Opportunities for business, tourism and sustainable growth
Northern Cyprus is at an interesting juncture: the number of expats is growing, new infrastructure and tourism projects are emerging, and international investors are beginning to see the country as a quiet but stable location in the Eastern Mediterranean.
But growth requires trust.
Erhürman’s vision could start right here:
• Modernization of administration,
• Promoting local production and education,
• Cooperation with Turkey and neighboring countries,
• new energy and environmental initiatives,
• Expanding cultural and scientific cooperation with Europe.
All of this still sounds abstract – but it creates a framework in which Northern Cyprus can mature not only politically, but also economically and socially.
🌅 A quiet optimism
Nobody expects miracles.
The international interrelationships are too complex, the divides between communities too deep.
But perhaps that is precisely the strength of this moment: that hope does not have to be loud to be real.
Erhürman embodies an attitude that has become rare in Northern Cyprus: patient pragmatism.
He doesn’t talk about quick solutions, but rather about lasting structures.
And that may be exactly what this country needs now – a policy that listens, plans, and slowly but surely regains trust.
✍️ Our conclusion
Whether you were born in Northern Cyprus, live here, invest here, or have simply lost your heart to this island, the coming years are sure to be exciting.
The new president faces a daunting task: breaking the isolation, strengthening institutions, and leading a country that oscillates between past and future.
But if his program delivers on its promises – dialogue, rule of law, dignity, openness – then Northern Cyprus could indeed enter a new phase:
a time of stability, transparency and economic self-discovery and recovery.
And maybe, just maybe, this small, divided island will end up being a great example of how politics with high human values and attitudes can still make a difference.
We are really excited, Your Samira & Marten*
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