The pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party has concluded its political meetings following a high-profile visit to Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). By Jan. 7, the delegation had met with a broad spectrum of political parties, including the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), the far-right Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), the Felicity Party, the Future Party, and the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP).
Key Discussions with CHP
During a meeting with the CHP, the DEM delegation highlighted Öcalan’s firm advocacy for disarmament and his vision for a political and democratic framework to resolve longstanding issues. They underscored the historical unity of Turkish and Kurdish peoples and emphasized strengthening this bond.
The CHP responded by proposing the creation of a “Social Reconciliation Commission” within Parliament, a concept based on a 2014 draft law. This commission would include equal representation from all parliamentary groups and seek input from citizens, academics, NGOs, and international examples. Its objective would be to draft actionable recommendations for resolving the Kurdish issue, with approved proposals submitted to the government for implementation.
CHP sources stressed that such a legal framework would ensure accountability, enhance the process’s credibility, and protect those leading it.
Sensitivity Toward Key Groups
CHP Chair Özgür Özel reiterated the party’s commitment to addressing the sensitivities of key groups, stating, “We will not say ‘yes’ to anything that martyr families and veterans do not say ‘yes’ to.” This sentiment was echoed during the meeting, with the CHP emphasizing the importance of winning over resistant groups as a critical step in any conflict resolution process.
Concerns Over Trustee Appointments and Political Motives
The CHP raised the issue of trustee appointments in municipalities, referencing the case of Ahmet Türk, a co-mayor of Mardin who was removed on charges of “terrorism.” They argued that repealing the law permitting such appointments would signal genuine intent to address the Kurdish issue.
Additionally, the CHP expressed reservations about the process being initiated following MHP’s call, fearing it could serve to extend President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s term in office.
DEM Party’s Vision for Democratization
DEM Party representatives countered these concerns by emphasizing their ultimate goal: democratizing Türkiye and ending conflicts. They urged all political stakeholders to engage in the process, ensuring it leads to genuine peace rather than political gains.