“Mr Abdullah Öcalan is preparing to make a historic call in the coming days for the construction of a democratic Turkey as a comprehensive and lasting solution to the Kurdish question,” said Tuncer Bakırhan, Co-Chair of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, during his party’s group meeting in Ankara on Tuesday.
Bakırhan underscored his party’s readiness to support the initiative, highlighting the urgent need for democratic reforms. “We are ready for a permanent and profound solution. We value, support, and stand behind this historic call,” he stated.
Addressing the government directly, Bakırhan urged President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to respond with decisive leadership. “Now, everything is in Erdoğan’s hands,” he said, stressing the critical role the president holds in advancing the peace process. “This is your chance to be remembered in history, Mr Erdoğan. Show the courage to win the future instead of merely saving the day.”
Bakırhan’s remarks come amid growing political tensions over the government’s approach to Kurdish rights and democratic freedoms. Addressing party members and supporters, he highlighted, “Turkey stands at a crossroads where democracy and authoritarianism collide, and the voice of the people must be louder than ever.”
Criticising the government’s handling of democratic institutions, Bakırhan said, “The republic has never been democratic towards those seeking their rights, identity, and freedom. From its establishment to today, repression has been the constant response to demands for justice.” He condemned the appointment of government trustees to replace elected mayors in Kurdish-majority municipalities, calling it “an occupation of the people’s will.”
Bakırhan also addressed the recent escalation of military operations in northern Syria, stating, “While we speak of peace, bombs fall on civilians. The attacks in northeastern Syria are not only acts of war but also crimes against humanity.” He urged international bodies to respond to what he described as systematic violations of human rights.
On domestic issues, Bakırhan denounced the government’s response to the 2023 earthquakes, claiming, “Despite their promises, the government failed the people of Hatay and other affected regions. Two years on, many still live in containers amidst rubble.”
Emphasising the importance of dialogue, Bakırhan concluded, “Peace is not achieved through dominance but through mutual respect and justice. It is time for all voices to be heard, and for Turkey to embrace its diverse identities within a truly democratic framework.”
