ANKARA – Gulistan Kilic Kocyigit, Parliamentary Group Deputy Chair of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, commented on the PKK’s disarmament ceremony, emphasizing the collective responsibility to build peace. “Öcalan addressed not only the state and the PKK, but also society and politics. This peace belongs to all of us, and so does the duty to build it,” she said.
The “Peace and Democratic Society Group,” led by KCK Co-chair Bese Hozat, carried out a symbolic disarmament ceremony in response to a call from Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan.
The move drew international attention and was interpreted as a potential new phase in resolving the Kurdish issue. AKP Chair and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced that a parliamentary commission would be established to discuss the legal requirements of the process.
‘A MEANINGFUL RESPONSE TO OCALAN’S CALL’
Gulistan Kilic Kocyigit described the PKK’s step as a direct response to Öcalan’s longstanding call for peace and democratic politics. “This step is extremely meaningful,” she said, urging the state to act swiftly to create the legal and political framework necessary for sustaining the peace process.
‘A NEW PHASE OF DEMOCRATIC STRUGGLE’
Calling the ceremony a “critical threshold,” Gulistan Kilic Kocyigit highlighted that Öcalan firmly believes in democratic politics and social peace. “We’re entering a new phase of democratic struggle,” she noted. “Neither the PKK nor Öcalan glorify armed struggle—they have repeatedly emphasized that it was a necessity. Now they are clearly saying they will carry on the fight for equality and democracy through legal, political means.”
‘EXCUSES HAVE BEEN REMOVED’
Gulistan Kilic Kocyigit also pointed out that the impact of the disarmament move extends beyond Turkey and the Kurdish issue, calling it a significant contribution to regional peace. “If weapons are being used as an excuse to avoid democratization or to deny Kurdish rights, then Öcalan is saying: ‘Here, we’re removing that excuse.’”
‘THE STATE MUST RESPOND CONSTRUCTIVELY’
According to Gulistan Kilic Kocyigit, Öcalan’s call is directed at all segments of society—not just the PKK. “The disarmament ceremony requires a meaningful response from the state. Öcalan is urging a broader opening for democratic politics, and that message must be heard.”
‘STRUCTURAL BARRIERS MUST BE REMOVED’
Gulistan Kilic Kocyigit emphasized that lasting peace and transformation in Turkey require dismantling deep-rooted legal and political obstacles. “This includes reforming the election law, abolishing the Anti-Terror Law (TMK), and repealing certain sections of the Penal Code,” she said. “Ultimately, we need a new democratic and inclusive constitution.”
‘PARLIAMENT MUST ACT’
Calling for the rapid establishment of a parliamentary commission, she said the body should engage with all sectors of society to produce comprehensive proposals for peace. “The process needs a solid legal and political foundation. Öcalan must be allowed to play an effective role,” she added.
Addressing the issue of reintegration, Gulistan Kilic Kocyigit asked critical questions: “How will returning guerrillas be treated legally? Will they be able to work, participate in politics, live freely?” She stressed the need for immediate legal measures to support this transition.
‘THE OPPOSITION MUST FEEL RESPONSIBLE’
Gulistan Kilic Kocyigit also pointed to the role of the opposition: “This is a comprehensive process. The opposition must be a driving force in pushing for legal reforms. They must feel responsible,” she said, emphasizing that society as a whole cannot remain passive. “This peace belongs to all of us. No one will hand us a perfect peace on a silver platter—we must all take part in building it.”
MA / Mehmet Aslan - Melik Varol