Erhürman Wins TRNC Election with Pledge to Redefine the ‘Casino Island’ Image

CTP leader Tufan Erhürman has been elected as the new president of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) with the support of voters frustrated by the casino-driven growth model and ongoing allegations of money laundering.

Lefkoşa — Newly elected TRNC president Tufan Erhürman campaigned on a platform of transparency, accountability, and institutional reform, directly appealing to citizens concerned about the country’s growing dependence on the casino economy. His statements and long-standing criticisms of the “casino-centered development model” have turned his victory into a symbolic rejection of the island’s reputation as a gambling hub.

During his campaign and previous parliamentary speeches, Erhürman repeatedly emphasized that tourism in Northern Cyprus should not be defined solely by casinos. “Our tourism is not limited to casino tourism… We have the potential for nature, cultural, gastronomy, health, and sports tourism as well,” he said, highlighting the need for a diversified and sustainable tourism policy.

In 2019, when the Games of Chance Law was debated in parliament, Erhürman criticized the lack of long-term planning in the sector, stating:

“The government is unable to present a clear projection of how many casinos or hotel beds we will have in the next 10 to 30 years. There is no plan or target set for this.”

He also drew attention to the social costs of gambling addiction, noting that the issue extends far beyond economic concerns. As prime minister, Erhürman had initiated studies on gambling and betting addiction, explaining that “people can gamble outside through betting offices and online platforms; we have started a study on gambling addiction.”

Erhürman’s broader vision includes redefining the country’s international image. “Our country will no longer be known only for casino tourism… our attraction is not gambling, it is our identity,” he said in 2018, signaling his intent to rebuild Northern Cyprus’s reputation through culture, education, and sustainable development.

Reform Over Prohibition

Rather than calling for an outright ban on casinos, Erhürman promotes tighter regulation, stronger oversight, and economic diversification. His emphasis lies in transparency, institutional governance, and limiting the influence of unmonitored capital flows.

Political observers interpret his victory as a public backlash against the unregulated casino economy and the growing perception of political dependence on illicit money. Yet Erhürman’s pragmatic approach — balancing reform with economic stability — suggests a gradual reorientation rather than abrupt confrontation.

As Northern Cyprus enters this new chapter, expectations are high for clear policy frameworks, legislative reform in the gaming sector, and stronger anti–money laundering enforcement. Erhürman’s challenge will be to turn his message of “clean economy and fair governance” into institutional reality — and to prove that the TRNC can thrive beyond its “Casino Island” label.