In Hakkari (Colemêrg), the celebration of Newroz on Sunday was not just a cultural event but a political statement, drawing attention to the Kurdish struggle for rights and recognition in Turkey.
The festivity began with traditional music, dance and attire, but the atmosphere was charged with political expressions, notably through chants supporting Abdullah Öcalan, Kurdistan Workers’ Party’s (PKK) imprisoned leader.
Kadir Şahin, a local co-chair of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, addressed the crowd regarding the upcoming local elections. “The Kurdish people are a dignified, believing people. We will give the biggest answer at the ballot box,” he said.
“Throughout history, Kurdish women have stood dignified. We will break the isolation with our determined struggle,” stated Free Women’s Movement (TJA) activist Zeynep Sipçik, celebrating the role of Kurdish women in the struggle.
As the Newroz fire blazed, it became a symbol of hope and renewal, with attendees chanting “Bijî Serok Apo” and celebrating the historic messages of Abdullah Öcalan.
The occasion acted as a rallying point for political engagement ahead of the elections, with speeches emphasising the importance of Kurdish participation in Turkey’s political process and challenging the existing trusteeship system.
