Emine Ülker Tarhan has returned to politics. But the real question is: What has changed in 12 years so that a figure who was once the target of harsh criticism is now treated as a “welcome sister”?
Tarhan was once one of the sharpest opponents within the party. His criticisms were directly directed at the line, the administration and the political identity. Have the intervening years diminished the weight of these words, or have political circumstances created a different picture?
The reunion of different views under the leadership of Özgür Özel can be read as “unifying politics”. But this rapprochement may be a reflection not only of sincerity but also of the natural flexibility of politics.
Transparency is critical when assessing the picture. If there is indeed a change of opinion, this needs to be communicated publicly. If there is no connection between yesterday's criticisms and today's situation, question marks will accumulate in the minds of voters.
If it is the pragmatic nature of politics, the red lines of the past can become flexible negotiating points today. Underestimating public opinion is a big mistake. Voters follow political debates over the years; past criticisms and opinions are recalled when the time comes.
It is clear that there is a change. But the name of this change is still unclear. Is it sincerity? Is it strategy? Or is it the usual political bargaining? As always, the public will decide. Because the longest and most reliable memory in politics is the memory of the voters.