Following “Peace and Democratic Society Call” of Abdullah Öcalan, which aimed at a peaceful and democratic resolution of the Kurdish question, the PKK first declared a ceasefire and then held its congress for “restructuring” on May 5-7. 

 

Despite these steps, state side -key party in the peace process- has yet to take any action to strengthen the peaceful environment. Various circles, including those close to the ruling government, frequently underline that the steps taken by the government will be critical for the healthy progression and resolution of the issue.

 

 

Cahit Kırkazak, who believes that mutual steps will ease the resolution process, commented on the current situation. He noted that the PKK’s actions, aligned with Öcalan’s perspective, offer a significant clue. 

 

Kırkazak said, “This means that Turkey is starting a non-violent process to resolve its democratic issues. For the upcoming process to be healthier and for both parties to have self-confidence, both sides need to stop the violence. This is a crucial issue. If one side stops the violence while the other continues, it won’t help the process or contribute to it. 

 

Kırkazak underlined the importance of the PKK congress and added, “Mr. Öcalan has opened the door. The state and its leaders need to establish a mechanism to light the way and pave the path forward. Mr. Öcalan made the call, and the PKK held its congress. Waiting for the government and the state to act from here is nothing more than looking for excuses."

 

‘RIGHT TO HOPE MUST BE IMPLEMENTED’

 

Kırkazak stressed that Öcalan’s physical freedom is essential for the process to move forward smoothly. Kırkazak stated that the implementation of the European Court of Human Rights’ ruling on the violation of Öcalan’s right to hope would be sufficient for his physical freedom to be ensure. 

Kırkazak  said, "Politically and legally, the right to hope must be implemented without delay so that Mr. Öcalan, who carries the historical responsibility of this process, can guide it effectively.”

 

‘SOCIETY IS READY FOR THE PROCESS’

 

Kırkazak emphasized that both the Kurdish people and the entire Turkish society bear responsibility in this process. He stressed the importance of voicing the demand for peace courageously and clearly. 

 

Kırkazak continued, “In this process, no one should compete in pain. Because these pains are the pains of the entire society. From the people to political parties, civil society organizations, and a process that consolidates in the Parliament, Turkey needs a unified approach. We can see that Turkish society is not avoiding responsibility and is ready for this process.”

 

MA / Rukiye Payiz Adıgüzel