Öcalan – Era of peace, democracy, and brotherhood
Press Release
On December 28, Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned Kurdish leader, made a significant statement during a meeting with two MPs from the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, marking the second visit in over 45 months, led by MPs Pervin Buldan and Sırrı Süreyya Önder.
Öcalan emphasized the urgent need to address the Kurdish question through constructive dialogue and parliamentary initiatives. He reiterated his commitment to fostering Turkish-Kurdish unity and presented a vision for a democratic resolution to ongoing conflicts.
“Strengthening the bonds of Turkish-Kurdish brotherhood is not only a historic responsibility but also an urgent and critical necessity for all communities,” Öcalan stated, urging a move beyond “narrow and short-term political calculations” to achieve a sustainable resolution.
He called for inclusive parliamentary engagement, encouraging all political forces to contribute positively to the process. “The Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) is the most crucial platform for fostering constructive dialogue and charting the path to peace,” he added.
Öcalan also addressed broader geopolitical issues, including the turmoil in Gaza and Syria, noting that external interventions have worsened these crises, making a domestic resolution to the Kurdish question even more essential. “The involvement of opposition parties and their constructive proposals are vital to achieving this goal,” he remarked.
His statement conveyed a readiness for constructive dialogue: “I am prepared to take positive steps and extend a call for reconciliation in light of these principles.”
The DEM Party delegation confirmed Öcalan’s stable health and high morale, describing the discussions as comprehensive and impactful, with a focus on peace and democratic progress.
This development comes amid speculation about a potential resumption of a political resolution process. Öcalan’s philosophy has significantly influenced movements such as the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), which is rooted in his vision of democratic confederalism.
In light of escalating tensions in northeast Syria, Öcalan’s call for reconciliation is increasingly significant, especially as Turkey’s recent military actions have destabilized the region and drawn international criticism, underscoring the need for a comprehensive and democratic approach to the Kurdish question.
Read a full translation of the DEM Party’s statement below:
To the Press and Public,
On 28 December 2024, we conducted a comprehensive meeting with Mr. Abdullah Öcalan on Imrali Island. His health is good, and his morale is quite high. His evaluations regarding finding a permanent solution to the Kurdish Question were of vital importance.
In the meeting, which also assessed recent developments in the Middle East and Turkey, Mr. Öcalan presented positive solution proposals to counter imposed dark future scenarios.
The general framework of his thoughts and approach is as follows:
• Strengthening Turkish-Kurdish brotherhood is not only a historical responsibility but has also gained critical and urgent significance for the destiny of all peoples.
• For the success of this process, it is essential for all political circles in Turkey to take initiative without being caught up in narrow and short-term calculations, to act constructively, and to contribute positively. Undoubtedly, one of the most important platforms for these contributions will be the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM).
• The events in Gaza and Syria have demonstrated that this issue, which external interventions have attempted to exacerbate into a chronic crisis, can no longer be postponed. The contributions and proposals of the opposition are also valuable for achieving a solution proportionate to the seriousness of this matter.
• I have the competence and determination to provide the necessary positive contribution to the new paradigm strengthened by Mr. Bahçeli and Mr. Erdoğan.
• The delegation will share this approach of mine with both the state and political circles. In light of this, I am ready to take the necessary positive step and issue the call.
• All these efforts will elevate the country to its rightful level and also serve as a very valuable guide for democratic transformation.
• This is the era of peace, democracy, and brotherhood for Turkey and the region.
With respect to the public,
Pervin Buldan and Sırrı Süreyya Önder
29 December 2024
