Süleyman Demirel

To hardline old-school leftists of Turkey, Süleyman Demirel will eternally be an enemy. They all saw him as the pioneer of ?mam Hatip High Schools, the champion of classical populism.

Former Turkish Prime Minister and President Süleyman Demirel, who passed away at the age of 90 early on June 17, will be laid to rest in his hometown of ?slamköy in Turkey's south after a state ceremony in the capital on June 19. 

Is there any other politician in the world who was overthrown by the military twice and then elected again to the country?s top posts by the people?

Turkey?s 9th president, Süleyman Demirel, was perhaps the only example in political history.

I grew up in a strange environment where Süleyman Demirel was not particularly liked but also considered Turkey's one and only savior. 

My family did not even once vote for Demirel but we had fans of Demirel nearby, among neighbors and certain relatives. It was an environment where, you know, the young were sharper and the old were "cool," more concerned with their livelihood?

Former Turkish President Süleyman Demirel, who died early June 17, left his mark on the Turkish economy, as the country's second highest growth rate was seen during one of his governing terms and he pioneered the launch of many large infrastructure investments. 

President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an and Prime Minister Ahmet Davuto?lu have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Süleyman Demirel while praising the veteran statesman's services to his country as one of the dominant figures in Turkey's politics for the past half-century.

With his village background and 'man of the people' image, Süleyman Demirel was known as a powerful orator and had a unique way with words, producing many memorable quotes throughout his political life

Former Turkish Prime Minister and President Süleyman Demirel, who was twice toppled by the military only to subsequently return to power, has died at the age of 91.

Turkish authorities declared three days of national mourning over the passing of Demirel, known as "Baba" or "Father," to his supporters in Turkey's farming heartland during his years in power.

Former Turkish Prime Minister and President Süleyman Demirel, who was twice toppled by the military only to subsequently return to power, has died at the age of 90.

Turkish authorities declared three days of national mourning over the passing of Demirel, known as "Baba" or "Father," to his supporters in Turkey's farming heartland during his years in power.

Former Turkish President Süleyman Demirel, who was twice toppled by the military during seven stints at the head of government, died early on June 17. He was 91.