KNK member in Rojava: people's struggle, resistance are guarantee of Kurdish unity

The 24th General Assembly of the Kurdistan National Congress (KNK) was held in the Dutch city of Vianen on June 6 and 7 under the slogan “Democratic National Unity,” with the participation of more than 300 delegates from different parts of Kurdistan and abroad.

Speaking to ANHA's agency on the sidelines of the congress, KNK member in Rojava Fatma Ali Lakto said that convening the General Assembly was an urgent necessity given the circumstances facing Kurdistan and Rojava.

She added: “The meeting provided a platform for the people and political parties to come together and develop a strategy for the future of the Kurdish people, while seeking diplomatic and political solutions that serve Kurdistan.”

Kurdish Unity

Lakto noted that discussions focused primarily on strengthening Kurdish unity. She stated: “Numerous views were presented on developing political work, protecting the national communities of Kurdistan, and establishing committees that serve society.”

She stressed the importance of the message sent by Abdullah Ocalan to the General Assembly, describing it as a call for the Kurdish people to set aside complications and disagreements and work toward strengthening national cohesion. She also described the Kurdistan National Congress as an umbrella organization encompassing all Kurdish political parties.

Regarding the possibility of holding a comprehensive congress representing all Kurds, she said: “The current situation raises an important question: Are the political parties ready? Every party has its own desire to hold its own gathering.”

Society as the foundation of unity

Lakto emphasized that the visits conducted prior to the General Assembly—including meetings with political parties, intellectuals, and civil society institutions demonstrated that political parties alone cannot represent the Kurdish people.

She stressed the need for society to participate with its voice and opinions because, as she stated, “the Kurdistan National Congress includes everyone.”

Lakto also highlighted the role of political parties in Rojava, Southern Kurdistan, and other Kurdish regions, noting that contradictions among them often become obstacles to achieving Kurdish unity. She called on political parties to set aside their differences and work according to a strategy that serves the interests of Kurdistan.

She further emphasized the importance of involving women, intellectuals, independent figures, and youth in developing this long-term strategy, arguing that such an inclusive approach would create a strong position capable of safeguarding Kurdish rights and protecting the people.

Peace and Democratic Society: An interconnected path

Regarding the Peace and Democratic Society Initiative launched by Abdullah Ocalan in February 2025, Lakto stated: “The Kurdish people have always adhered to ethical and peaceful principles. Their life is based on coexistence, and they never bow their heads. Therefore, if this process succeeds, it will benefit all peoples of the region, and Turkey will move toward a democratic system that guarantees the rights and lives of all communities.”

Lakto also stressed that the cohesion of Kurdish society became clearly visible during the recent attacks on Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh, and Kobani.

She said: “The entire people of Kurdistan stood together, and young people flocked to the borders in support of Rojava. This social solidarity is the foundation upon which we build.”

In conclusion, Fatma Ali Lakto emphasized that the struggle and resistance of the people remain the ultimate guarantee of Kurdish unity. She stressed that achieving this goal requires strong cooperation and cohesion between society and political parties.

She also called on the public to remain vigilant and avoid being drawn into conflicts and schemes aimed at undermining Kurdish unity.

ANHA