Ankara, Turkey – Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) leader Abdullah Öcalan called on Monday for seizing the current opportunity to launch a “democratic republic” project. He asserted that the legislation enacted by the political leadership would be key to resolving a long-standing issue. Moreover, he said it would open a new chapter in Turkey’s history. This message was conveyed in a letter delivered by a delegation from the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (Equality and Democracy Party) on İmralı Island. The letter followed a three-hour meeting with Öcalan at his prison on the island on Sunday.
In his message, Öcalan stated, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and with this law, we embark on resolving a historical problem. We are at the beginning of a democratic process no less important than the founding of the Republic.” He added that the efforts and sacrifices made during the Republic’s establishment must be undertaken with the same seriousness today. In addition, he said this is necessary to build a “democratic republic.” He also emphasized that this step is not only for the Kurds but for all the country’s inhabitants. Furthermore, he said it will have repercussions for the future of Türkiye and the region.
Öcalan indicated that the success of this process would pave the way for the development of democratic law. He also noted that it would enhance economic opportunities and consolidate peace. This would benefit more than 86 million people. He acknowledged that the problems had not been fully resolved. However, he stressed that “there is no reason for pessimism.” He called on all parties to shoulder their responsibilities to ensure the process’s success. He concluded his message by saying, “The law enacted through politics is like a key that unlocks the door to this process, and the door to a democratic republic is wide open.”
It is worth noting that following talks with Turkish authorities through the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party in October 2014, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) announced its dissolution in May. This was in response to a call from its founder, Abdullah Öcalan. This came after more than four decades of fighting against Turkish forces, which left approximately 50,000 dead.
