Karayilan: August 15 Uprising turns into self-reconstruction process for our people

A formal ceremony was held in the Medya defense areas to mark the anniversary of the “August 15 Uprising,” regarded as a historic milestone in the Kurdish struggle. The event was attended by senior commanders of the People’s Defense Forces (HPG), including Murad Karayilan, Zuzan Julek, and Sedat Urfa, alongside groups of male and female fighters.

In his speech, Murad Karayilan described the August 15 Uprising as a revolution against colonialism and slavery. He stressed that the movement was not merely a military action, but carried ideological, political, social, and cultural dimensions that revived the Kurdish people’s national identity.

Karayilan’s Address:

“Dear comrades, our patriotic people,

Congratulations on the Day of Rebirth (August 15 Uprising).

We extend our warmest greetings, respect, and loyalty on the 41st anniversary of the August 15 Uprising, the Day of Rebirth, to Leader Apo. A blessed rebirth day to our people, to the peoples of the region, to our friends, to the mothers of martyrs and their families, and to all comrades and workers.

He saluted fallen leaders and fighters, mentioning by name Akeed–Masoum Korkmaz, Ali Haydar Kaytan, Rıza Altun, Nour al-Din Sofi, Kocero Urfa, Delal Amed, Zilan, Zeki Şengali, Atakan Mahir, Rezan Cudi, and others. He pledged renewed loyalty to their legacy, saying: “Martyrs, let your souls be at peace. Your banner will always be raised. Your cause will surely triumph.”

Dear comrades, our patriotic people

The August 15 Uprising is a landmark in our history. It broke the chains of slavery. It was a revolution against slavery and colonialism. In the darkness of that period, this historic movement paved the way for profound changes and transformations within Kurdish society. Perhaps it began with an armed action, but it was never purely military. It carried ideological, political, social, and cultural dimensions. Our society returned to its essence and began to question itself.

In this way, it carried out an intellectual revolution, a social revolution, a cultural revolution, and a women’s revolution. The August 15 Uprising became a process of self-reconstruction for our people. Thus, a renaissance took place. It became a revolution of revival, existence, and freedom. This historic movement created a national spirit among the Kurdish people and raised the banner of freedom and democracy in Kurdistan and across the region. That is why it is a historic day and must always be greeted with joy by our people.

Our beloved people, dear comrades

As is well known, with Leader Apo’s call on February 27, our struggle entered a new phase. We remain faithful to the decisions of the 12th Congress of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party. At the same time, we are committed to Leader Apo’s call on June 19. We will fulfill our responsibilities to ensure the success of the peace process and the building of a democratic society. However, the dove of peace cannot fly with one wing.

For the dove to fly, it needs two wings. The reason why all comrades have joined the ranks of the guerrilla is the freedom of Leader Apo, this is a fact. The principles of democratic integration and freedom are essential. Yet, if they are reduced merely to disarmament and laws for the return of the guerrillas, they will remain incomplete. The guerrillas will not accept it in that way.”

The guerrillas did not take to the mountains for themselves alone. Above all, the peace-builder and the architect of peoples’ brotherhood, Leader Apo, must be physically freed. This law must be pursued and enacted. If this does not happen, it is unacceptable. These words do not come only from leaders and administrators, but from every fighter. To enact a law for the guerrillas, for them to lay down their arms and return as free individuals, while Leader Apo remains imprisoned in Imrali, is something that cannot be accepted.

There is another issue, and it concerns trust. It is a matter of building confidence, and the need for this must be recognized. A committee has been formed in the Turkish parliament, which is without doubt an important step. The Turkish authorities must take this reality into account. If a serious step is taken on this matter at this historic stage, and the fundamental Kurdish question, which has persisted for a century, is resolved, then genuine brotherhood will be established between the Kurdish and Turkish peoples.

A lasting solution to the problem and the strengthening of peace requires an approach that is satisfactory to this cause. We are approaching this issue with strategy; we are not resorting to tactics or evasions. We have firm faith in Leader Apo, and we are approaching this process with sincerity and with a strategic outlook. Of course, we will take our precautions, but our approach is as follows: if the other side treats us in this way, gives us their trust, and enacts reliable laws, then we will act responsibly. We will fulfill all our duties to establish a democratic republic in Turkey. We will join the democratic republic.

Dear comrades, our noble people

We welcome the 41st anniversary of the August 15 Uprising in the spirit of peace and a democratic society. It is a step toward peace and a democratic society. With this spirit, we welcome August 15. It is, of course, both an outcome and a new beginning. Starting from the August 15 Uprising, we are entering a new era. We believe that, thanks to this initiative by Leader Apo, important developments will take place in Kurdistan, Turkey, the Middle East, and the entire world. Within the framework of democratic modernity, the struggle for a democratic state, for socialism, and for a democratic society will grow and be strengthened everywhere. The road toward a democratic Turkey and a democratic republic will be opened and consolidated.

This is also the foundation for strengthening national unity and the cause of freedom in Kurdistan. That is why Leader Apo has called for national unity, and we repeat his call. At this historic stage, we must build Kurdish national unity, and we must crown this stage with democratic and national unity. This is the hope and aspiration of our people. At the same time, from the perspective of a democratic nation with neighboring peoples, we will lay the foundations of genuine peace and brotherhood.

The fifteenth of August has achieved deeply significant results. On this basis, and on the basis of the democratic nation, we must establish a new democratic political strategy. To achieve this, the spirit of August 15 is indispensable. The spirit of August 15 is the spirit of victory and sacrifice, and this spirit is necessary in these times. All the patriotic sons and daughters of our people must view this moment in that way and take part in it.

On this basis, we once again congratulate you all on the Day of Rebirth, wish you success in the struggle of our era, and extend to you our greetings and respect.

Long live the spirit of August 15

Long live Leader Apo

With our soul and blood, we are with you, Leader

No life without the Leader

Martyrs are immortal

Woman, Life, Freedom.”

A-H 

ANHA