DEM Party Co-Chair Calls for Urgent Action in Peace Process, Criticizes Continued Isolation of Ocalan

Daban Mohammed 08/04/2025
Tuncer Bakirhan, the DEM Party Co-Chair.
Tuncer Bakirhan, the DEM Party Co-Chair.

Tuncer Bakirhan, co-chair of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party), stated during a meeting of the party's parliamentary faction in the Turkish Parliament that no practical steps have been taken to protect or advance the process that has began, and that the executive branch has failed to take a position that would reassure the public.

Bakirhan emphasized the urgency of breaking the “silence and indifference” surrounding the process, pledging that DEM Party will continue to strive for peace and solutions, as it has done in the past.

Bakirhan declared that democracy should not be feared, urging that instead of succumbing to fear, it is time to act with "courage."

He also pointed out that the Kurdish people have rallied around the hope for peace, as demonstrated in the Newroz celebrations. "Everyone reaffirmed their support for Ocalan's call. Yet, there is a delay and indifference in the expected steps. While actions are needed, there is only waiting. We are dealing with the most critical issue in Turkey, but still, nothing is moving," he stated.

Bakirhan criticized the Turkish state for continuing to isolate imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan. He noted that while one of the most fundamental issues in the history of the Turkish Republic is under discussion, the key figure, Ocalan, remains isolated.

He urged the Turkish Parliament to take charge of the process, advocating for the passage of several laws to implement Ocalan's call.

Additionally, Bakirhan stressed the necessity of a special law for disarmament, highlighting that urgent legal steps are required to address the demand for disarmament.

“If there is a demand for peace, why does the isolation continue? How can this be explained?" he questioned. "The isolation of Ocalan must end immediately as the first step toward peace. Peace requires seriousness and commitment, as we have shown. It is unacceptable to speak of peace on one hand while continuing the isolation on the other,” he said.

Regarding a potential visit to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in connection with the solution process, Bakirhan told reporters that his delegation had not yet received any updates.

He added, “We expect to meet with the president this week. We believe this will be a positive development for Turkey. We hope it will happen within the week, but the time and date remain uncertain, and nothing has been communicated to us yet."

Daban Mohammed

08/04/2025