Massive demonstrations at border between N. Kurdistan, Rojava

Two large demonstrations were held at the border between Northern Kurdistan and Rojava, with participation from residents of Amed, Şırnak, Serêkaniyê, Batman, and Mardin.

Mardin

A large number of people participated in the protest, including deputies from the Equality and Peoples’ Democracy Party, mayors, youth members of the Equality and Democracy Council, Mothers for Peace, activists from the Free Women’s Movement, and members and officials of political parties and civil society organizations. Many residents of Şırnak and its surrounding areas also joined.

The crowd gathered in Nowruz Square, carrying banners reading: “Rojava is resistance, freedom, and conscience it cannot be compromised. Supporting Rojava is supporting humanity.” The protesters chanted slogans such as: “Long live Rojava’s resistance,” “Rojava is Eastern Kurdistan, Kurdistan is one state,” and “Rojava is our honor,” while applauding and singing. The demonstrators planned to march from Newroz Street to Peace Park, where an official statement would be delivered.

Roha

The Democratic Institutions Platform in Roha issued a statement in the Serêkaniyê neighborhood. The announcement was attended by deputies from the Equality and Peoples’ Democracy Party from Roha, Omar Öcalan, Dilan Kont Ayan, and Ferit Şanışer along with members and representatives of political parties and civil society organizations affiliated with the platform, and a large number of citizens. Prior to the statement, the police fully cordoned off the neighborhood. A crowd gathered in front of the Equality and Peoples’ Democracy Party building in Serêkaniyê to protest the siege imposed on the city of Kobani.