BRUSSELS – The East Turkistan Government-in-Exile (ETGE), an official representative body that serves as a beacon of hope, independence and resistance for the oppressed East Turkistani people, has successfully concluded transformative exiled parliamentary candidate elections across Europe.
The primary objective of this monumental endeavor was to fortify the democratic foundations of the exiled government, reinforce its political significance, and empower the East Turkistan diaspora through local parliamentary candidate elections. These historic parliamentary candidate elections serve as a prelude to the East Turkistan Government in Exile’s 9th Parliament and General Assembly, scheduled to take place in Washington, DC from November 10th to November 12th, 2023, during which a new parliament will convene to elect a new government leadership.
An official delegation, comprising the President Ghulam Yaghma, Prime Minister Salih Hudayar, and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Yarmemet Baratjan, embarked on diaspora town hall meetings that resonated with democratic ideals. From June 22nd to July 6th, this distinguished delegation visited East Turkistani diaspora communities in multiple European countries, bearing witness to the dynamic local parliamentary candidate elections that epitomized the indomitable spirit of the East Turkistani people. Transparency and inclusivity lay at the core of the delegation’s interactions with the East Turkistan diaspora.
Through town hall meetings and open discussions, the delegation provided a platform to elucidate the significance of the parliamentary elections, emphasizing the vital role played by the exiled government in shaping the political landscape. Their impassioned addresses underscored the importance of active participation, enabling the East Turkistani people to wield their influence and chart the course of their government-in-exile while confronting the oppressive forces that seek to suppress them.
Ensuring the integrity of the electoral process was of paramount importance. The delegation implemented rigorous conditions for aspiring parliamentary candidates, drawing from invaluable lessons learned since the establishment of the exiled government. Robust measures have been put in place to safeguard against Chinese and foreign intelligence infiltration, with candidates being subjected to comprehensive background checks and required to be committed to restoring East Turkistan’s independence. These measures reflect the intricacies of the diaspora society and aim to preempt crises that marred previous elections.By eliminating arbitrary appointments, the delegation has ushered in a new era of genuine democracy, firmly placing the power to choose representatives back into the hands of the people. The outcomes of the parliamentary candidate elections were resoundingly successful.
In Sweden, eight passionate East Turkistani individuals, including four exceptional women, were elected as parliamentary candidates, signaling a growing interest and confidence in the exiled government within a country that had previously lacked representation in the East Turkistan Government in Exile.
Norway witnessed a notable expansion in representation, as four parliamentary candidates, comprising a dynamic group of young graduates, were elected. This infusion of fresh perspectives and energy promises to invigorate the government-in-exile, fueled by the dedication and innovative ideas of the next generation.
Belgium, previously disconnected from the East Turkistan government-in-exile, experienced a remarkable shift in sentiment. Open discussions and heightened awareness dispelled past hesitations caused by a lack of understanding. The successful parliamentary candidates’ election in Belgium, resulting in the election of four representatives, signifies a turning point in the relationship between East Turkistani diaspora community in Belgium and the East Turkistan Government in Exile.
France served as a unique backdrop for democratic engagement, attracting individuals from diverse political backgrounds to participate in the electoral process. This convergence of perspectives, a rarity until now, exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the East Turkistani diaspora in France. Following rigorous question-and-answer sessions, five parliamentary candidates were elected, symbolizing the strength and unity within the French East Turkistani community.
Switzerland, witnessed a heartening development as members of the East Turkistani diaspora united under the guidance of their esteemed Member of Parliament and the current Minister of the Interior of the East Turkistan Government in Exile, Mr. Nurahmet Kurban. The election of six parliamentary candidates in Switzerland further bolsters the government-in-exile’s efforts to amplify the voice of the East Turkistan people on the international stage.
In the Netherlands, a country known for its commitment to democracy and human rights, the East Turkistan Government in Exile achieved a significant milestone. Six parliamentary candidates were elected, representing the East Turkistani diaspora in the Netherlands. This achievement highlights the enthusiasm and dedication of the East Turkistan people in the country, as well as their unwavering support for the East Turkistan Government in Exile’s mission.
The European trip of the ETGE government officials culminated in the Netherlands, coinciding with the solemn anniversary of the Urumchi massacre. In a display of solidarity with the East Turkistani Dutch diaspora community, officials of the East Turkistan Government in Exile actively participated in commemorative activities. From the Peace Palace to the front of the International Criminal Court building and concluding at the Dutch Foreign Ministry, this symbolic act exemplified the government-in-exile’s unwavering commitment to seeking justice for the victims and preserving the memory of their courageous struggle.
The parliamentary candidate elections conducted by the East Turkistan government-in-exile in Europe mark a historic milestone in the pursuit of justice, freedom, and independence. They serve as a testament to the unwavering determination and indomitable spirit of the East Turkistan people. As the East Turkistan Government in Exile looks toward the 9th Parliament and General Assembly in Washington, DC, the resounding success of these local parliamentary elections emboldens the government-in-exile to continue advocating for the rights and independence of the East Turkistan and its people.