NICOSIA — Seven candidates have officially entered the race for the upcoming presidential election in Northern Cyprus, scheduled for Oct. 19.
Four independent candidates—İbrahim Yazıcı, Arif Salih Kırdağ, Mehmet Hasgüler and Ahmet Buran—submitted their applications to the election council. Osman Zorba also filed his candidacy on behalf of the Cyprus Socialist Party.
They join incumbent Ersin Tatar and opposition leader Tufan Erhürman, widely seen as the main contenders. Observers expect a single-round election, with the outcome likely decided between the two leading figures.
Yazıcı wished success to all candidates and expressed hope for the future of the Turkish Cypriot community. Zorba described the vote as a moment of choice, urging citizens to decide between independence and submission. Kırdağ said his campaign aims to restore rights and push for a swift resolution to the Cyprus issue, emphasizing equality and sovereignty.
The election is taking place amid ongoing political tensions and international non-recognition of the breakaway administration in the north.