UPDATE 2 - Ruling coalition resigns in Turkish Cyprus

UPDATES WITH REMARKS OF PRESIDENT, PM

By Emre Aytekin

ANKARA (AA) - The coalition government in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) resigned on Thursday, local media reported.

Premier and coalition leader Tufan Erhurman submitted the government's resignation to President Mustafa Akinci a day after Finance Minister Serdar Denktas resigned and the People's Party (HP) announced its withdrawal, Turkish Agency Cyprus reported.

Akinci, who accepted the resignation, asked Erhurman to continue as prime minister until a new government was formed.

Speaking after receiving the resignation letter, Akinci said that he will give time to the parties to have talks among themselves until next week.

He said a four-party coalition was experienced for the first time and considerable efforts were put during this time.

“Coalitions are always difficult. But every experience sets an example for the future,” Akinci said and thanked the parties for their efforts.

He added that following the meetings with party assemblies as of Monday, he would give the task of forming the government to a member of parliament whom he thinks is suitable for the task.

“There will be no delay, the assignment will be given within the week,” Akinci added.

- ‘Country needs a stable government’

Also speaking to reporters after submitting his resignation, Erhurman said the task should be given to Ersin Tatar, the leader of National Unity Party (UBP) -- which has the most seats in the parliament -- without any delay.

He also said that there are serious economic issues in the country and stability is needed which “unfortunately” they could not achieve during their government.

“The country needs a stable government,” he said, thanking everyone whom he worked together for 15 months.

Following the snap general election on Jan. 7, 2018, the four-party coalition government consisting of Republican Turkish Party (CTP), the People's Party (HP), Communal Democracy Party (TDP) and Democratic Party (DP) was formed under leadership of Erhurman, who is the leader of the CTP.

In mid-February last year, the coalition government won the vote of confidence with 27-22, as one lawmaker was absent from the 50-seat parliament.

Support of 26 members of parliament is required in order to form the government in the TRNC.

*Writing by Sena Guler