Tülay Hatimoğulları, co-chair of Turkey’s pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, emphasised the potential of third-way politics to rescue Turkey from societal decline, during a weekly party meeting in Ankara on Wednesday.
“We can build a Democratic Republic together,” Hatimoğulları stated, suggesting a collective approach to overcoming the country’s challenges.
The meeting, attended by various societal and political groups, served as a platform for Hatimoğulları to also reflect on historical injustices, particularly the Dersim Massacre.
“It’s time to confront all massacres against humanity, starting with Dersim. We owe an apology to the people of Dersim,” the co-chair said, proposing the establishment of reconciliation commissions.
Further addressing the current political climate, Hatimoğulları criticised the government’s approach to minority rights, particularly the Alevi community.
“Penalties are being unjustly imposed on those who reject the assimilation of Alevi beliefs and strive to live their faith freely,” she said, affirming the party’s solidarity with the Alevi community against oppressive policies.
The cultural diversity of Turkey was celebrated, with Hatimoğulları highlighting recent Hıdırellez and Easter festivities as embodiments of hope and renewal for all communities.
“These celebrations remind us of our shared aspirations for peace, brotherhood, equality and freedom,” she added.
In her concluding remarks, Hatimoğulları reiterated the feasibility of reviving Turkey through inclusive and democratic methods.
“The path to recovery from our country’s downturn is through a third-way political strategy that involves all societal forces,” she urged, calling for a collective effort to reimagine a democratic governance framework that respects diversity and ensures justice for all.
