The pro-Kurdish DEM party is awaiting a momentous statement from PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan during a scheduled visit to his prison. This delegation meeting marks an ongoing effort to resolve the long-standing conflict with the Turkish government. Hopes are high for a potential peace appeal from Ocalan, as the PKK engages in renewed dialogue amid the evolving political landscape in Turkey.
The pro-Kurdish Democratic Regions Party (DEM) has announced the expectation of a significant statement from Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). This anticipated declaration comes amid renewed efforts to address the longstanding conflict between the PKK and the Turkish government. On Thursday, a DEM delegation is scheduled to visit Mr. Ocalan at his prison on Imrali Island near Istanbul, marking their third meeting in recent months.
The visit has been authorized by Turkey’s Justice Ministry, and DEM expressed hope for a positive outcome, stating, “If everything goes smoothly, tomorrow, we expect Ocalan to make a historic declaration.” Following the meeting, a press statement will be issued by the party, expected around 5:00 PM local time. The seven-member delegation includes prominent members, such as Ocalan’s lawyer, Faik Ozgur Erol, and aims to facilitate a video message from the PKK leader.
Ocalan, who has languished in an island prison since his arrest in 1999, has recently had limited access to visitors. Notably, two DEM lawmakers visited him in late December and provided updates to parliamentary parties. This engagement represents a proactive approach by the Turkish political landscape, specifically led by the ultra-nationalist Devlet Bahceli, a supporter of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The ongoing dialogue raises hopes that Ocalan may soon call for a ceasefire, potentially allowing PKK forces to respond positively in return for concessions for Kurds in Turkey. However, it remains uncertain how far Ocalan’s appeal may extend. The delegation also includes seasoned politicians who have long advocated for the resolution of the Kurdish issue, highlighting the significance of this meeting.
The conflict between the PKK and the Turkish state, which began in 1984, has resulted in over 40,000 deaths. Despite previous peace talks that ended in violence in 2015, fresh discussions suggest a renewed commitment to conflict resolution. As such, the anticipation surrounding the upcoming declaration from Ocalan reflects a notable moment for Turkish-Kurdish relations, with many awaiting significant developments that could pave the way for peace.
In conclusion, the imminent visit to Abdullah Ocalan by the DEM delegation signifies a potentially transformative moment in the Turkish-Kurdish conflict. The anticipated “historic declaration” could either mark a new phase of dialogue or reinforce past challenges. With both parties engaged in discussions, the focus remains on the impact of Ocalan’s message for the future of peace talks and resolution efforts.
Original Source: www.albianews.com
