Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed leader of the PKK, has made a historic call for the dissolution of the terrorist group, urging its members to lay down their arms. His statement, read by a delegation from the Peoples' Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) on February 27, 2025, represents a significant development in Turkey's ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorism and foster national peace, reads a Daily Sabah post.
In his statement, Ocalan urged the PKK to convene its congress, integrate with the state and society, and make the decision to dissolve the group. He highlighted that the PKK, which emerged in the 20th century amid intense violence and global conflicts, has lost its relevance due to changes in Turkey, including the collapse of real socialism and advancements in freedom of expression. Ocalan explained that these developments had eroded the group's original purpose, rendering its continuation unnecessary.
Ocalan emphasized that the second century of the Turkish Republic must be built on democracy, advocating for peace and unity through democratic consensus. He also acknowledged the positive responses from key political figures, including Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, both of whom had previously endorsed calls for peace and disarmament.
This call comes in the wake of Bahceli’s "terror-free Turkiye" initiative, which has garnered government support despite some opposition. Ocalan’s appeal to the PKK to disarm and dissolve was also endorsed by Bahceli and Erdogan, creating an environment for the initiative to move forward.
The statement, delivered during a news conference in Istanbul, was accompanied by a photo of Ocalan, who had been in solitary confinement at Imralı Island prison for many years. The image of him writing the letter was shared widely, symbolizing his pivotal role in this historic moment.
Despite Ocalan’s appeal, the Turkish government remains firm in its stance that the PKK’s actions will not be tolerated if they continue to threaten Turkey’s security, both domestically and in neighboring regions like Syria and Iraq. Turkish forces have continued their counterterrorism operations, emphasizing that any failure by the PKK to heed Ocalan’s call will result in consequences.
Efkan Ala, deputy chair of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party), commented on the call, stating that if the PKK disbands and lays down its weapons, it will free Turkey from the shackles of terrorism. Officials stress that the ultimate goal of the initiative is to create a future free from terror, while ensuring the wounds of families who have lost loved ones to decades of violence are not ignored.
As tensions remain high, it remains to be seen whether the PKK will heed Ocalan’s call or continue to resist the push for peace and disarmament. Sources suggest that if the group does not comply, Turkey may initiate widespread counterterrorism operations to address the ongoing threat.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
