Historic Message of Leader Ocalan: Call for peace, democratic society

A delegation from the Party of Equality and Peoples' Democracy (EDP) visited İmralı and held a press conference in Istanbul this morning to announce the message of leader Abdullah Öcalan to the public.

 Ahmed Türk read the message in Kurdish, while Pervin Buldan delivered it in Turkish. The text of the historic appeal is as follows:

 The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) was founded in the 20th century, one of the most violent periods in history. The political and ideological landscape in which the PKK emerged was shaped by the two World Wars, the era of constructed socialism, and the Cold War. In this environment, the Kurdish reality was denied, and freedoms—particularly freedom of thought—were severely restricted.

 The PKK’s formation was influenced by the ideological and strategic framework of constructed socialism. However, by the 1990s, due to both internal and external factors—such as the collapse of constructed socialism, the erosion of identity denial policies, and the development of freedom of thought—the PKK gradually lost its original meaning and began to stagnate. Like many other historical movements, it has now reached the end of its course, necessitating its dissolution.

 For over a millennium, Turks and Kurds have voluntarily coexisted in an alliance essential for their mutual survival and resistance against hegemonic powers.

 However, for the past 200 years, capitalist modernity has sought to undermine this alliance. The socio-political forces affected by this transformation have contributed to its deterioration, particularly through the unilateral interpretations imposed by the Republic. The fundamental task today is to restore and reorganize this historic relationship in a spirit of fraternity and unity, without neglecting our shared beliefs and values.

 The Necessity of a Democratic Society

The PKK has been the longest-standing and most extensive insurrection in the history of the Republic. Due to the closure of democratic political avenues, the PKK gained strength and support.

 Yet, ethnic nationalism in its various forms—whether through nation-states, federal unions, administrative autonomy, or purely cultural solutions—cannot adequately address the deep-rooted historical and social realities of this region.

 A genuine and sustainable resolution lies in the recognition of identities, freedom of thought, democratic organization, and the establishment of socio-economic and political structures within a truly democratic society and political framework.

 The second century of the Republic can achieve unity and permanence only if it is crowned with democracy. There is no viable alternative to democracy as a means of governance and societal organization. Democratic consensus is the fundamental principle that must guide this process.

 Accordingly, the language of peace and democratic co-existence must be cultivated in alignment with this reality.

 A Call for Disarmament and Responsibility for the Future

 The recent call by Mr. Devlet Bahçeli, the commitment demonstrated by the President, and the positive approaches of various political parties have contributed to the emergence of this new phase.

 In this context, I call for the disarmament of all armed groups and assume historical responsibility for this appeal.

 As no contemporary movement or party has been dissolved through coercion, I urge all factions to voluntarily convene their congresses and make decisive resolutions.

 "All armed groups must lay down their weapons, and the PKK must dissolve itself. I extend my greetings to all those who believe in coexistence and who heed my call."

 February 25, 2025

Abdullah Ocalan

 ANHA