Can A Cem - Dervis Twosome Work?

MILLIYET- Columnist Hasan Cemal writes on the possibilities in Turkey’s political future. A summary of his column is as follows:
We have to find a way out from the uncertain political atmosphere of today. Leaving politics on its own natural course can only lead to more nonsensical behavior. Doing so may even be regarded as acting as an accomplice to it. Politics are being enlivened with a question. ‘Can a Cem-Dervis twosome work? Could they cooperate harmoniously?’ Another question on every mind is, what conditions would allow an Ismail Cem-Kemal Dervis twosome to work together? There are three scenarios, the first one their acting together within the framework of the Democratic Left Party (DSP). A Cem-Dervis twosome can take Husamettin Ozkan with them and the DSP may come into power. This is only possible if Ecevit gives a green light, or a DSP Convention where Ecevit doesn’t interfere brings Cem and Dervis to the frontlines of the party. The second scenario foresees the formation of a new party by Cem and Dervis with the participation of 20 deputies and their entering the elections under the banner of this new party. The third one calls for Cem and Dervis’ participation in the Republican People’s Party (CHP) and taking sides with Baykal. It must be underlined that scenarios including Cem-Dervis duo will be an important factor in Turkish political life in the near future. The carrying out of such a scenario is closely connected with political stability. During my recent 14-day tour of Anatolia, I got the impression that a Cem-Dervis scenario could work. There are other scenarios concerning Kemal Dervis in politics, such as his cooperation with Mesut Yilmaz or perhaps with Mehmet Ali Bayar. It is a well-known fact that the Motherland Party (ANAP) leader understands what Dervis is trying to say and is helping him. Dervis appreciates his help. It can also be said that Dervis looks warmly on Democratic Turkey Party (DTP) leader Mehmet Ali Bayar. However, it is also known that Dervis is closer to the left and therefore there is not a strong probability of him acting with Yilmaz or Bayar. In Turkey, politics is open to surprises. Therefore, the possibility of a Cem-Dervis twosome has to be closely followed.

SOURCE: OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER, DIRECTORATE GENERAL OF PRESS AND INFORMATION