Tuncer Bakırhan, co-chair of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, addressed his party’s group meeting on Tuesday in response to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party’s (PKK) decision to disband and end its four-decade armed struggle against Turkey. He described the PKK’s move as a “historic opportunity” for a democratic solution and a vital step in the long-awaited peace process.
Bakırhan stressed that the disbandment of the PKK and the opportunity for peace should not be delayed, firmly stating, “Delaying peace is impermissible.” He urged that concrete steps be taken immediately, without waiting until after the Eid holiday, to ensure that the disbandment leads to real and lasting peace.
The DEM co-chair also called for the formation of a parliamentary commission to oversee the process and ensure that the steps taken are effective and inclusive, involving all stakeholders in the peace process. He stressed that the success of this moment depends on transparent and democratic measures.
Commenting on the significance of the moment, Bakırhan said that 12 May marked the beginning of a new chapter in Turkey’s history. He saw the PKK’s decision as a critical juncture that could end a painful chapter of violence and loss, and stressed that this decision must lead to the establishment of lasting peace and equality.
Bakırhan also underlined the importance of democratic steps for a comprehensive solution to the Kurdish issue, saying the path to lasting peace and unity requires full democratic legitimacy and adherence to the rule of law. He pointed out that such steps should not be postponed and must be implemented quickly to avoid further setbacks.
In his speech, Bakırhan paid tribute to the sacrifices of those who lost their lives in the decades-long conflict and pledged to carry forward their memory, stressing that the struggle for peace and democracy must continue in their honour. He expressed his commitment to ensuring that the peace process leads to a society where justice, freedom and equality are guaranteed for all.
Bakırhan also praised political figures such as CHP leader Özgür Özel and MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli, whose statements on the importance of legal and sincere steps for peace were in line with the DEM party’s vision for a just and lasting solution to the conflict. He reiterated that this peace process must be inclusive and involve all social groups in shaping Turkey’s democratic future.
As the PKK’s dissolution opens the door to a new phase in Turkey’s political landscape, a transparent, inclusive, and legally grounded peace process, as urged by Bakırhan, remains a key factor in overcoming decades of conflict.
