DEM Party calls for Abdullah Öcalan’s release to solidify peace efforts
🔷’Mr Öcalan’s seven-point roadmap offers a historic opportunity for peace.’ DEM Party calls for an end to isolation and collective responsibility for dialogue and democracy. Follow the… pic.twitter.com/lsYLQM7LgY
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At a press conference held at the DEM Party headquarters, spokesperson Ayşegül Doğan presented the party’s stance on the latest political developments, focusing on Abdullah Öcalan’s recently shared peace initiative. Doğan highlighted the historic significance of the initiative and called for the conditions necessary to ensure its success.
“We begin 2025 with hopes for equality, justice, peace, freedom, and democracy,” Doğan stated. “This year marks a pivotal moment as we stand on the threshold of potentially transformative developments. The recent messages from İmralı Prison, where Mr Öcalan has been held under severe isolation since 1999, offer a roadmap for peace and democratic resolution. It is essential that we create the conditions for him to contribute fully to this process.”
Doğan referred to the seven-point message shared by Öcalan, leader of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), describing it as a comprehensive framework for addressing the Kurdish question and promoting dialogue. “Mr Öcalan’s messages call upon all of us—citizens, political actors, and the international community—to take shared responsibility for opening channels of dialogue and negotiation,” she noted. “His vision is a testament to decades of dedication to peace and reconciliation.”
Doğan elaborated on Öcalan’s historical role, including his unilateral ceasefire declarations dating back to 1993 and his consistent efforts to transform İmralı into a hub for peace initiatives. “His message is clear: 'I am ready to contribute positively to the current paradigm shift initiated by political leaders,’” she quoted. “But for this to succeed, the conditions of his detention must change. Isolation prevents meaningful participation in this critical process.”
The DEM Party, according to Doğan, views the resolution of the Kurdish issue as inseparable from Turkey’s democratisation. “Peace and democracy are universal rights, not privileges granted by any political bloc. Building lasting peace requires all stakeholders to abandon rigid mindsets and engage in sincere dialogue,” she stated.
Doğan called for support across political divides, urging opposition parties and civil society to contribute to the initiative. “This is not just DEM Party’s cause. The Kurdish issue and democratisation concern everyone in Turkey. We call on all political actors to approach this opportunity with responsibility and vision,” she said.
Doğan reiterated the DEM Party’s long-standing opposition to the isolation regime imposed on Öcalan, framing it as a barrier to peace. “For decades, this isolation has undermined efforts for a democratic solution. The time has come to end this regime and enable Mr Öcalan to act fully in his capacity as a leader with a proven commitment to peace,” she emphasised.
The spokesperson also welcomed recent political consultations and visits conducted by the DEM Party’s delegation, which have fostered hope for meaningful progress. “The meetings with various political parties reflect a shared willingness to explore democratic pathways. However, achieving tangible outcomes requires consistent and collective effort,” she noted.
To sustain this momentum, Doğan stressed the need for a shift in political discourse. “The language of denial, marginalisation, and hostility must give way to one of inclusion and respect. Building trust begins with changing the way we communicate,” she said. “This historic moment demands depth, vision, and a commitment to a just and democratic future.”
Concluding the press conference, Doğan reiterated the DEM Party’s readiness to champion democratic politics and peace-building efforts. “We salute Mr Öcalan’s unwavering commitment to peace and stand ready to support this process. It is a call to action for all who envision a fair and democratic Turkey. Let us seize this historic opportunity together,” she urged.
