Arinc denies claims that solution process ended

Speaking on the private Haber Turk channel, Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Arinc yesterday evaluated the solution process. Arinc denied claims that the solution process ended, saying that the process is still ongoing, regardless of the number or pace of the armed PKK groups withdrawing. In response to the question if there will be a member of parliament wearing headscarf in 2015, Arinc said, "If there will be a candidate wearing headscarf, and if she will be accepted as a candidate, then it is possible to have a parliamentarian with headscarf as well," adding, "We need an understanding, a regulation that will allow women candidates to wear headscarves until they are elected. I do not believe that a settled unity exists on the topic yet." Arinc also said that allowing headscarves in public spaces might be possible with future regulations. During the interview, Arinc also ruled out any alterations to the Justice and Development Party (AKP) guidelines, which exclude over 70 party officials from the upcoming elections, including Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "Whether we want to or not, it’s the rule," Arinc said. "For me, I can’t wait for that day. I’ve been in politics since I was 19 or 20. There is an absolute benefit to giving a break now. This is also the politics renewing itself as well. If God allows it, we will not be in the 2015 elections. I personally don’t plan to be in any, be they local or parliamentary. That’s what I think."