ABSTRACT
In March 1971, the Turkish armed forces intervened for the second time in eleven years to overthrow an elected government. This time, however, their action was far less decisive and complete than it had been in 1960. Rather than take over the government directly, the commanders of the armed forces issued a ‘memorandum’ addressed to President Sunay and the speakers of the two chambers of parliament. It was broadcast on Turkish radio at 1.00 p.m. on 12 March 1971, and read as follows:
Through their persistent policy, views and actions, parliament and the government have driven our country into anarchy, fratricidal strife and social and economic unrest. In the public mind, they have destroyed the hope of reaching the level of contemporary civilisation, which Ataturk set as our goal. They have failed to carry out the reforms which were envisaged in the Constitution, and have thus plunged the future of the Turkish Republic into acute danger.
The measures which are needed to end the concern and disillusionment felt about this grave situation by the Turkish nation and the Armed Forces which spring from its bosom should be assessed by our parliament in a non-partisan spirit. It is considered essential that a powerful and credible government should be set up, within the democratic rules, which will end the present anarchic situation, will take up the reforms envisaged in the Constitution, in the spirit of Ataturkism, and will implement reformist laws.
If this is not speedily undertaken, the Turkish Armed Forces, carrying out the duty which is given to them by law to protect and preserve the Turkish Republic, are determined to take over the administration directly. 1
