BERÇEM CÛDÎ

Kobani - On February 27, Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan launched a historic initiative titled “Peace and Democratic Society,” calling for a peaceful resolution of the Kurdish issue based on equality and justice.

 

The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) responded by holding its 12th congress, officially declaring the end of its armed struggle and ceremonially destroying its weapons. The move was hailed as a turning point toward peace.

 

Despite this shift, Turkey has yet to take any concrete steps in response, raising doubts about its willingness to engage in a peaceful solution. Although a committee was formed, no legal measures have followed, while Ankara continues to threaten North and East Syria.

 

Kurdish people unite around Öcalan’s philosophy

 

Romi noted that the Kurdish-Turkish conflict has deep historical roots, which intensified after Öcalan’s arrest and turned into a major war. ‘Öcalan presented numerous proposals for a solution, and the Kurdish people organized around his philosophy, strengthening their position and forming a resistance front,’ she said.

 

‘Öcalan sought peace despite isolation’

 

She added that Öcalan has consistently pursued a peaceful settlement despite harsh conditions of isolation. “The PKK, the Kurdish people, and their allies responded positively to his call, and the party declared this demand transparently through its congress.”

 

‘Turkey’s stance remains unclear’

 

Regarding Turkey’s position, Almaz Romi said: “Turkey is a party to this process, and its steps will determine its outcome. Yet Ankara has shown no positive response to Öcalan’s initiatives; on the contrary, its statements and actions expose ambiguous intentions.”

 

Romi also highlighted the ongoing system of isolation and torture in İmralı: “Öcalan initiated this process, but his isolation must be fully lifted, and he must be given the right to hope and to directly participate in the process as a political figure. So far, DEM Party delegations have only been able to convey his messages, but that is not enough. His family, journalists, and others should also be able to meet with him freely so his influence can expand and the process can advance more rapidly.”

 

Threats to North and East Syria

 

Romi also warned of Turkey’s threats against Rojava and North and East Syria. “Öcalan said from the start that peace in Turkey means peace in Syria. Yet Turkey’s position is contradictory—initiating talks on one hand while threatening the region on the other,” she said.

 

‘This mindset must change’

On how the process could succeed, she said: “The Turkish authorities call this process ‘ending terrorism,’ which reveals their intentions. Unless this mindset changes and Turkey accepts Kurdish existence constitutionally, democratically, and peacefully, success will be difficult.”