E-memorandum

The way the statements were written caused concerns that the Turkish military would intervene in the election against leading candidate Abdullah Gül in defence of secularism.

One statement read: "The problem that emerged in the presidential election process is focused on arguments over secularism.

It will display its attitude and action openly and clearly whenever it is necessary ... Those who are opposed to Great Leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's understanding 'How happy is the one who says I am a Turk' are enemies of the Republic of Turkey and will remain so.

The Turkish Armed Forces maintain their sound determination to carry out their duties stemming from laws to protect the unchangeable characteristics of the Republic of Turkey.

"[1]The e-memorandum term was coined by Ural Akbulut to describe the General Staff statement because it was published exclusively online.