Head of Turkey's Republican People's Party (CHP) Kemal Kilicdaroglu said on Monday that his party can effectively manage the vaccine supply and provide it to all citizens, accusing the government of pushing for a vaccine crisis.
In a TV interview, Kilicdaroglu accused President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his government of instigating incidents to spark deadly clashes between the police and citizens to impose a state of emergency in the country.
The opposition leader pledged to solve the issue of the vaccine if the presidential palace gave him the opportunity.
“We will bring the vaccine on time and provide it to everyone. I have spoken to the mayors, we can solve this problem.”
On Monday, Turkey recorded 25,980 new COVID-19 cases and 340 deaths.
For his part, Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said the current lockdown has lead to a decrease in infections and hospitalizations.
“I am convinced that this complete lockdown will ensure a rapid decrease in the number of cases. We have already observed a decrease in the number of infections and hospitalized patients,” Koca told reporters.
The minister called on citizens to adhere to all preventive measures imposed by the state to curb the spread of the virus.
Last week, Turkey approved the Russian Sputnik V vaccine for emergency use.
According to Koca, Turkey will receive 50 million doses over six months.
“We expect the first shipment in May. In a week or two, that will be clear.”
