In the United States, four military generals stepping down would have been a relatively small matter - one, most likely, not newsworthy. However, in Turkey, the event was met with mixed emotions. On one hand, military figures rarely ever step down from their positions. Instead, they would overthrow the government if they wanted change. On the other hand, the generals' resignations signified the end of the military's powerful reign over the civilian government.
"Yesterday was a new phase, a sharp curve toward pushing the military to adapt to the current changes in Turkey," said Yavuz Baydar, a Turkish columnist. "It shows how toothless the military has become compared to the civilian authority" (Tuysuz). .
Despite the unrest that many Turkish residents fear is looming, President Abdullah Gul assured everyone that while the events were unprecedented, they would not stir the waters as much as some believe. "Nobody should see this as a continuing crisis or problem in Turkey. Without a doubt, the events of yesterday were extraordinary in their own right, but it is all back on track. It is not right to speak of a vacuum," he said (Tuysuz). .
Three of the men who resigned were the commanders of the air force, army, and navy. All were also part of a group of soldiers, approximately 250 in number, who are suspected of plotting coups and are currently awaiting trial. Although these three were also scheduled to retire in a month, they were also up for promotion. However, the government and the military were unable to agree on specific promotions at the High Military Council meeting. Erdogan specifically announced that the 250 soldiers awaiting trial would not be considered for promotion. Erdogan announced a replacement for General Chief of Staff Isik Kosaner. General Necdet Ozel is now the commander of ground forces (Butler). .
Barkey applauds Turkey's ability to follow other countries' procedures.
