Despite harsh winter conditions, marchers continued calling for freedom for Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) leader Abdullah Öcalan and a resolution to the Kurdish issue on the day four of the Great Freedom March.
This day was marked by significant solidarity and support from local communities as the march passed through various regions, including Ağrı (Agirî), where the determination and resilience of the marchers were evident in the face of the challenging weather.
The marchers commemorated the victims of a Turkish airstrike in Uludere (Roboski), Şırnak (Şirnex), with Halime Encü’s plea, “Let’s join hands together,” demonstrating unity in the face of past tragedies.
The ongoing struggle for Kurdish rights was highlighted in Patnos (Panos), Ağrı, by the resilience of hunger strikers and their advocates, including Med Detainee and Convict Families Federation Co-chair Kerem Canpolat, and his assertive statement, “We will definitely win.”
The unwavering commitment of the participants has been evident as they persist despite winter’s challenges, with the march traversing the snowy landscapes of Beytüşşebap (Elkê) to reach the supportive crowds in Ağrı. The journey has unified diverse voices echoing a shared aspiration for peace and a democratic future, and includes pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party MPs Sümeyye Boz and Dilan Kunt Ayan.
As the march progresses, it carries forward the narratives of those affected by conflict, embodying a collective hope for a resolution that respects the rights and dignity of all parties.
Day-4 highlights
First Stop in Ağrı: Politicians and representatives of democratic community organisations highlighted the demand for Öcalan’s freedom as part of the march, stressing the broader implications for peace and democracy.
Roboski Memorial: Participants of the Great Freedom March visited the Roboski Cemetery to honour the victims of an airstrike, with calls for peace and justice, highlighting the continuing lack of accountability for past atrocities.
Statement outside Patnos Prison: A statement was made outside the gates of Patnos L-Type Closed Prison, emphasising the marchers’ determination to achieve their goals, including an end to Turkey’s isolation of Öcalan and a solution to the Kurdish issue.
