PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan expressed his readiness to contribute to a new political paradigm in Turkey, according to a statement released following a meeting with members of the DEM Party on İmralı Island. Öcalan reportedly said, “I am prepared to take the necessary positive steps and make the call for peace,” emphasizing his willingness to support the framework backed by Turkish leaders Devlet Bahçeli and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
DEM Party lawmakers Pervin Buldan, representing Van, and Sırrı Süreyya Önder, representing Istanbul, met with Öcalan for a two-hour meeting on December 28. In a joint statement, the MPs described Öcalan as being in good health and high spirits. They also highlighted the importance of his insights for resolving the Kurdish issue.
“We conducted a comprehensive meeting with Mr. Abdullah Öcalan on İmralı Island,” the statement read. “His evaluations regarding a permanent solution to the Kurdish issue carry critical significance.”
The joint statement noted that the discussion covered recent developments in Turkey and the Middle East, with Öcalan reportedly offering “positive solutions to counter imposed dark future scenarios.”
Excerpts from Öcalan’s remarks were included in the statement:
“Strengthening Turkish-Kurdish brotherhood is both a historical responsibility and a matter of urgent importance for all peoples.
For this process to succeed, it is critical for all political actors in Turkey to rise above narrow, short-term calculations, take initiative, and act constructively. The Turkish Grand National Assembly will undoubtedly be a key platform for these contributions.
The events in Gaza and Syria have demonstrated that the resolution of this issue—exacerbated by external interventions—can no longer be delayed. Success in addressing this requires serious and inclusive efforts, including contributions from opposition parties.
I am ready and determined to provide positive contributions to the new paradigm supported by Mr. Bahçeli and Mr. Erdoğan.
My approach will be shared with both the state and political actors by the delegation. In light of this, I am prepared to take the necessary steps and issue the call for action.
These efforts will elevate our country to its rightful place and serve as a guide for democratic transformation.
This is a time for peace, democracy, and brotherhood in Turkey and the region.”
Öcalan’s comments are expected to spark significant political debate as Turkey grapples with longstanding ethnic and political tensions.
