Leyla Zana, one of the most recognised figures in the Kurdish political struggle, has issued a public statement following the PKK’s historic 12th Congress. In her message, Zana congratulated the congress outcomes and underscored that the new period, with its new hopes and new forms of struggle, brings new responsibilities for all.
Yeni dönem, yeni umutlar, yeni mücadele biçimi hepimize yeni sorumluluklar yüklüyor. Demokratik, eşitlikçi, adil ve özgür yarınlara bu bilinç ve hassasiyetle yaklaşmalıyız.
Bu duygu ve düşünceler ışığında coğrafyamıza hayırlı olmasını temenni ediyorum.— Leyla Zana (@leylazanainfo) May 9, 2025
Zana stated: “We must approach democratic, egalitarian, just, and free tomorrows with this consciousness and sensitivity.” She wished for the congress outcomes to bring positive developments for the region.
Leyla Zana has long been a symbol of Kurdish resistance and peace advocacy. In 1991, she made history as the first woman parliamentarian to address the Turkish Grand National Assembly in Kurdish, an act for which she was later imprisoned. Despite decades of oppression, she remains a steadfast advocate for Kurdish rights, democratic progress, and peace.
Her message comes at a critical time as observers await the Turkish government’s reaction to the PKK’s announced transition towards a peaceful and democratic struggle.
