Pervin Buldan and Mithat Sancar, the co-chairs of the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), revealed their decision not to seek re-election at the party’s forthcoming congress in an interview on Medya Haber TV on Sunday.
The announcement came in the wake of the HDP’s electoral setback and the need to address the party’s internal analysis of its campaign.
Buldan and Sancar provided a comprehensive self-criticism about mistakes made in the pre-election process and expressed their intention to pass on their leadership responsibilities at the party congress, scheduled to take place in the coming months. Recognising the importance of addressing the party’s electoral challenges, they emphasised the need for meetings and conferences leading up to the congress, to devise effective strategies for the future.
Buldan declared the intention of the party to go to congress, following consultations with its various committees. She voiced her willingness to contribute to the ongoing struggle while acknowledging the need to consider all criticism. She further stated that she would not participate in any decision-making process during the congress.
Emphasising the importance of accountability, Buldan reiterated the party’s commitment to its constituents, to its grassroots and to women. She said that providing an account of their actions was of utmost importance, as they would be answerable to those who have supported the party.
The HDP’s internal analysis was initiated in response to the decrease in its share of votes during the recent election. The party has faced challenges in maintaining its electoral base and seeks to address these setbacks head-on. As the largest pro-Kurdish party in Turkey, the HDP plays a crucial role in representing the Kurdish community.
The forthcoming congress will be a crucial platform for party members to discuss and decide on the future direction of the HDP.
