Duran Kalkan, a founding member of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and delegate at the group’s 12th Congress, has reflected on the historic decisions made at the event, describing them as a turning point in the movement’s struggle for freedom. He shared his views in an exclusive interview with Medya Haber TV.
“A new era has begun in the Apoist freedom movement,” he said, stressing that this new phase would be defined by the call for ‘Peace and Democratic Society’ as outlined by Abdullah Öcalan, the leader of the Kurdish movement.
On Monday, following the 5–7 May Congress, the PKK made the critical decision to disband its armed struggle and focus on a new phase of political and democratic resistance. The historic congress followed a unilateral ceasefire declaration by the PKK on 1 March, after Öcalan’s February peace call for disarmament and political reconciliation.
Reflecting on the congress and the challenges faced by the Kurdish freedom struggle, Kalkan paid tribute to the efforts and sacrifices of many individuals, including the late Sırrı Süreyya Önder, who played a pivotal negotiation role in this process.
Kalkan described Önder as one of the most significant figures in the movement. “We remember Sırrı Süreyya Önder with respect, love and gratitude for his immense contributions,” said Kalkan. He also noted that Önder’s work, particularly his involvement in ushering in the congress, would continue to inspire the movement.
Highlighting the broader context to the PKK’s decision, Kalkan mentioned the external and internal forces that had attempted to sabotage the group’s efforts for decades, prompting a long process of resistance.
“Despite these obstacles, we managed to push forward with patience and determination. Our struggle was not without sacrifices,” he said. Kalkan also emphasised the importance of Öcalan’s leadership in guiding the movement through these challenges and ensuring that the congress’s goals aligned with the broader vision of democratic and peaceful change.
Kalkan also discussed the transformation of the PKK over the years, stating that the movement had evolved into a party deeply rooted in Öcalan’s ideology. “The PKK is not just a political party, but a movement shaped by Öcalan’s leadership. This shift was not just organisational, but also ideological, reflecting a new approach to the Kurdish struggle and the broader fight for freedom and democracy,” he said.
The prominent PKK figure concluded by noting that the success of the 12th Congress was the culmination of a long process and would pave the way for a future based on freedom, peace and democratic values.
