I read with interest the article “The old and new Turkey” (Nov. 9) by Aylin Kocaman. It would be difficult to disagree with the comparison the writer has drawn between today’s Turkey and the pre-AKP Turkey. One has to agree that Turkey has come a long way on the road to democracy. Contrary to the world’s perception, Turkish people are devout Muslims with progressive worldviews. Usually the term “progressive” is used to describe people with leanings toward the left side of the political spectrum. I don’t agree with this generalization.

Being progressive does not make a person an atheist, socialist or communist. It is a mindset, which respects opposing views and call for a balanced approach toward each and every aspect of life. As a matter of fact, a Muslim is supposed to be a forwarding-looking and progressive person. The Islam that Daesh and its likes are trying to impose on the Muslim world is a product of their own dark thoughts.

I agree with the writer that the Justice and Development Party or the AKP should not insist on presidential system in Turkey and respect the will of the people. In the current geopolitical situation, any political misadventure in Turkey will only harm the interests of all the Muslims everywhere in one way or the other.

Osman Ali

Riyadh