Justice Party (Adalet Partisi)
Description
The Justice Party (Turkish: Adalet Partisi) was a major center-right political party in Turkey, active from 1961 until 1980. It was perceived as the successor to the outlawed Democratic Party (Demokrat Parti) and emphasized economic development along with traditional values.
Leadership
The party was initially led by Ragip Gümüspala until 1964. Following Gümüspala’s tenure, Suleyman Demirel took over the leadership and remained at the helm until the party’s dissolution. Demirel also served as Prime Minister during several terms between 1965 and 1980: specifically, 1965–1971, 1974–1978, and 1979–1980.
Constituency and Ideology
The Justice Party attracted a coalition consisting of industrialists, large landholders, small traders, and peasants. The party’s major opposition was the center-left Republican People’s Party (Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi). Throughout its existence, the Justice Party discouraged the participation of Islamists, including prominent political figure Necmettin Erbakan.
Demise
Emerging political violence and an economic crisis led to a military coup in 1980, which resulted in the banning of all political parties, including the Justice Party.
Etymology
- The word “Justice” is derived from the Latin justitia, meaning righteousness or equity.
- The Turkish term “Adalet” also denotes justice, fairness, and legality.
Further Reading
- Ahmad, Feroz. The Turkish Experiment in Democracy, 1950-1975. C. Hurst & Co Publishers.
- Zürcher, Erik Jan. Turkey: A Modern History. I.B. Tauris.
- Özbudun, Ergun, and Hale, William. Islamism, Democracy and Liberalism in Turkey: The Case of the AKP. Routledge.
Conclusion
The Justice Party played a significant role in Turkey’s political landscape during its active years, especially in shaping the country’s center-right political discourse. Its commitment to economic development and traditional values, coupled with contributions by leading figures like Suleyman Demirel, left a lasting impact on Turkey’s political history.
Takeaways
- The Justice Party stood for economic development and traditional values in Turkey.
- Suleyman Demirel was a pivotal figure in the party’s history and political achievements.
- Despite its crucial role, political instability and a military coup led to the party’s dissolution.
