Qandil — At a critical juncture in the political solution process, the Freedom Movement announced a new historic step in response to the call of Leader Abdullah Öcalan, who redefined the concept of leadership and outlined the features of a democratic future that transcends war.

On October 26, under the supervision of the Freedom Movement, Qandil witnessed the declaration of a new phase within the framework of the February 27 call made by Leader Öcalan and the decisions of the 12th Congress of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). The official statement confirmed the withdrawal of forces from Turkish territory — a move described as pivotal in the path toward a political solution and a new foundation for building a democratic society.

Fighter Arin Hasrat, a member of the Freedom Movement who participated in the second stage of this historic march toward peace and a democratic society, told our agency:

“We answered Leader Öcalan’s call and took steady steps forward, determined to continue advancing this process.”

 

“Leader Öcalan brought about a great transformation”

Hasrat, who was among the group withdrawing from the Kabbar region, explained: “We were 25 comrades - 8 female fighters and 17 male fighters. Many of our comrades came from border regions such as Karzan and Botan. We responded to the call despite the continuation of military operations in several areas.”

She added that, despite all challenges, the fighters reached the designated location in response to what she described as a deep and profound call:

“No one expected Leader Öcalan’s call in this form, but once again, it created a deep transformation, embodying the essence of true leadership.”

Hasrat continued: “Different groups may interpret this process differently, but the strength of the call lies in its depth and element of surprise. When we read it, contemplate it, and listen to Leader Öcalan’s words, we realize its importance. It is not directed only to the Kurds — it carries a message for all peoples.”

She emphasized that: “Leader Öcalan’s words call for a democratic life. Through this collective step that has been taken, it has become clear that the future of Kurdistan and the Middle East cannot be reduced to war. Rather, Leader Öcalan is charting a path toward the freedom of peoples.”

“We are taking steps to advance the process.”

In conclusion, Arin Hasrat said: “We are taking steps to move this process forward. This does not mean we are surrendering - we have no regrets. A law must be enacted in accordance with this path, and through this new law, we want to practice politics, preserve our language and our rights. We are speaking of a law built upon our identity, founded upon it, and protecting it.”

It is worth noting that this announcement follows the initial step initiated by Leader Öcalan through his historic call last February, in which he urged an end to fighting and a shift toward a democratic political process that guarantees the rights of all peoples. That call marked a turning point in both discourse and practice, paving the way for concrete steps - beginning with the fighters’ symbolic destruction of their weapons.