ANKARA (A.A) - 08.07.2002 - Istanbul deputy Husamettin Ozkan resigned from State Ministry, Democratic Left Party (DSP) and his post as the Deputy Prime Minister.
Issuing a written statement after meeting with Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, Ozkan said that he was in DSP for 11 years together with Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit.
''I was charged as State Minister and Deputy Prime Minister for a period more than five years. I attributed importance to being faithful to DSP leader, honesty, compromise, tolerance, dialogue and patience since I went into politics. I did my best to maintain the economic balances, political stability and harmony in the coalition. I explained my views about the economic and political situation to Prime Minister once again in the country today. As it was seen in the meeting that Mr. Prime Minister didn't need my works anymore, I resign from DSP and ministry,'' he said.
''I have come till today with Mr. Ecevit. I said I have come till today with him, and I will go with him. I am keeping my promise. Moreover, I am leaving before him upon his request. After 11 years, I have learned from the Prime Minister that there is no place for sensitivity in politics,'' Ozkan said.
He said, ''I will do my best from now on for the benefits of my country and the society. I thank to all my friends and public who expended support to me in my works so far.''
Husamettin Ozkan was born in Develi in 1950. He received education in Economy and Management. He was elected as Istanbul parliamentarian in the 19th and 20th period.
Ozkan is married with two children.
In the 55th Government, Ozkan had worked as State Minister responsible for Religious Affairs Department.
In the 56th government Ozkan became State Minister and Deputy Prime Minister.
Ozkan, who was elected as Istanbul parliamentarian on April 18, was assigned as State Minister and Deputy Prime Minister.