On October 29, the centennial celebration of the Republic showed that Mustafa Kemal Atatürk remains the most contemporary leader with his enduring deeds and contributions.

It would be more accurate to employ the term "understanding" for the world leader, whom we will remember once again on the 85th anniversary of his immortality tomorrow. This is because current events, the challenges we encounter, and the quest for solutions consistently bring Atatürk into focus.

Why?

First and foremost, Atatürk placed "peace," humanity's greatest ideal, at the core of his statesmanship.

After triumphing over Greece, an imperialistic proxy in our region, he signed peace treaties with them not even a generation later. On the 10th anniversary of the Republic's proclamation, Greek leader Venizelos was among the guests invited to Ankara.

Atatürk is the hero of wars with his numerous victories, but he is also the hero of peace. Consider the atrocity in Gaza; a leader has failed to prioritize peace convincingly to the world!

***

In the article's introduction, we used the term "most contemporary"... The government organized a Palestine rally in Istanbul on October 28, the day preceding October 29. They could not choose another day! The intention was evident; condemning the atrocities in Palestine would overshadow October 29 with strong emotions and reactions. However, this did not occur.

The enthusiasm across all segments of society to celebrate the 100th anniversary surpassed all expectations. The government couldn't resist the wave from society. Hours before October 29, a call came from the Palace:

Everyone should display flags at home!

Millions had already adorned their spaces with flags. While the events in Gaza are undoubtedly a shared pain for us and all of humanity, we recognize the significance of channeling this solidarity to a day before October 29!

Ultimately, not only could the government's power not hinder the 100th-anniversary enthusiasm, but this fervor also encompassed the government itself.

The nation celebrated its 100th anniversary, aligning with the state.

The nation reminded the state of its raison d'être.

The nation gathered at Anıtkabir, spanning ages from 7 to 70, from 2 to 82. Our observations on that day, titled "Y-Anıtkabir," detailed the flood of emotions and people. Messages we received described the multitude flowing to Anıtkabir from 10-15 directions that day. The flags raised in the capital for October 29 seamlessly merged with those for November 10. October 29 affirmed that Anıtkabir would be the place where most hearts beat on November 10.

People will flock to Anıtkabir not to mourn but to demonstrate that Atatürk remains a living leader.

***

A call to the government, to the ruling circles... You have now seen and experienced that erasing Atatürk from people's memories is impossible.

By departing on November 10, you should comprehend to some extent that this nation will not forsake Atatürk. Let's progress beyond mere commemoration and strive to understand!

Attempt, and you'll realize that any efforts against him will prove futile. Moreover, consider how much progress can be achieved by embracing reason and science!

Try, and you'll see that all fundamental values that constitute a nation were also Atatürk's priorities!

A final reminder... Don't assume that with the conclusion of October 29, 2023, the centennial year is behind us.

On the contrary, the 100th year marks a new beginning to comprehend the past, grasp the present, and construct the future!

One last note... Should we suggest to all Atatürkists not only to commemorate Atatürk but also to understand him?!