**Turkish Cypriot Activist Under Police Inquiry Following Comments on Turkish Influence**
**Nicosia, Cyprus** – Turkish Cypriot activist Selma Eylem has reported that she was contacted by police in the northern part of Cyprus regarding remarks she made to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres about the political situation in the region. Eylem, who previously served as the president of the senior school teachers’ union in the north, stated that a police sergeant from the judicial affairs department reached out to her via telephone, requesting her presence to provide a statement.
In her account, Eylem expressed concern about the nature of the inquiry, questioning whether there was an offense or complaint that warranted police involvement. According to her, the officer insisted that there was no such complaint but mentioned the existence of an "official document" related to her comments. Eylem declined the request to attend for questioning and subsequently consulted her lawyer, Oncel Polili, who confirmed that she was not legally obligated to provide a statement.
The inquiry appears to be linked to Eylem's statements made during a meeting with Guterres on July 28, where she represented a bicommunal peace initiative and presented a joint declaration signed by 108 organizations. During this meeting, Eylem articulated her concerns regarding the division of Cyprus, emphasizing that it negatively impacts both communities, particularly the Turkish Cypriots in the north.
Eylem specifically highlighted what she termed the transformation of the northern part of Cyprus into a "sub-administration of Turkey." She expressed alarm over policies she characterized as "assimilation," alleging that Turkish Cypriots are becoming a minority due to the influx of Turkish settlers. Eylem's remarks included a call for urgent solutions to the ongoing division of the island, stressing that the will of the Turkish Cypriots has been undermined.
In her comments to Guterres, Eylem urged the United Nations to adopt a more proactive approach in addressing the Cyprus issue, rather than merely observing the situation. Following her recent police inquiry, she characterized the request for a statement as an attempt to exert political pressure on her and others who speak out on these sensitive issues.
Eylem's situation has drawn attention to the broader context of Turkish Cypriot activism and the ongoing political dynamics in Cyprus. The island has been divided since 1974, following a Turkish invasion triggered by a Greek-led coup. The northern part, recognized only by Turkey, has been a focal point for discussions about sovereignty, governance, and the rights of the Turkish Cypriot community.
The inquiry into Eylem's remarks raises questions about freedom of speech and the ability of activists to express their views on contentious political matters in the region. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to Eylem's concerns and whether her case will highlight broader issues regarding civil liberties and political expression in Cyprus.