Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned Kurdish leader, has issued a significant statement during a meeting with two MPs from the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party on 28 December. The visit, the second in over 45 months, was led by MPs Pervin Buldan and Sırrı Süreyya Önder.
In his message, Öcalan stressed the urgency of addressing the Kurdish question through constructive dialogue and parliamentary initiatives. He reaffirmed his commitment to fostering Turkish-Kurdish unity and outlined 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. He highlighted the importance of transcending “narrow and short-term political calculations” to achieve a sustainable resolution.
Öcalan underscored the need for inclusive parliamentary engagement, urging 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.
The Kurdish leader also addressed broader geopolitical concerns, including ongoing turmoil in Gaza and Syria. He noted that external interventions have exacerbated these crises, making a domestic resolution to the Kurdish question all the more critical. “The involvement of opposition parties and their constructive proposals are vital to achieving this goal,” Öcalan remarked.
His statement included a message of readiness to engage in 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 that Öcalan’s health is stable and his morale remains high. They described the discussions as comprehensive and impactful, noting the leader’s focus on peace and democratic progress.
This development follows months of speculation about a possible resumption of a political resolution process. Öcalan’s philosophy has shaped significant movements, including the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), which draws heavily from his vision of democratic confederalism.
Amid escalating tensions in northeast Syria, Öcalan’s call for reconciliation gains added significance. Turkey’s recent military actions have destabilised the region and drawn international criticism, highlighting the need for a comprehensive and democratic approach to the Kurdish question.
Recent reports from Medya News have detailed the broader implications of these conflicts, including the human cost of Turkey’s aggression and the challenges faced by the Kurdish-led AANES. Öcalan’s enduring influence as a symbol of resistance and hope continues to resonate across the region.
Next steps
The DEM Party delegation has pledged to share the content of their discussions with relevant political circles and the public. “These efforts will serve as a valuable guide for democratic transformation and achieving peace and brotherhood in Turkey and the region,” the statement concluded.
As the region faces complex challenges, Öcalan’s message is a timely reminder of the potential for dialogue, unity, and democratic progress.
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
