DEM Party Co-Chair Praises PUK Leadership in Türkiye’s Peace Process

Kurdistani Nwe

Farid Dilshad meets Tuncer Bakırhan for Kurdistani Nwe interview.

In a meeting with Kurdistani Nwe Newspaper, Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) Co-Chair Tuncer Bakırhan has commented on the Kurdish issue in Türkiye, outlining the positions of senior officials and Turkish society regarding the peace process. He highlighted the progress made, constitutional reforms achieved, and the significant role played by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) in ensuring the process’s success — particularly the contributions of the late President Mam Jalal Talabani and PUK President Bafel Jalal Talabani.

Q: Where has the process of resolving the Kurdish issue in Türkiye reached?

The peace process, launched on 1 October 2024, and the move towards a democratic society have made considerable progress. We have passed key tests and are now approaching a resolution and lasting peace. The commission established by the Turkish Grand National Assembly has completed part of its work and will soon submit a report along with legislative proposals. Significant developments are expected in Türkiye this November, as society’s primary expectation centres on legal and organisational reform. The state must take concrete action. The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has taken historic steps to advance the process and address potential threats, placing the responsibility firmly on the state. As the saying goes, “put your hand under the rock” — everyone must now take responsibility.

Q: What is the position of the Turkish government, particularly President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on the solution process?

The Imrali delegation recently met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss the peace process and the development of a democratic society. The meeting was highly productive. Erdogan expressed a positive and supportive stance, stating on 7 November: “It is time for a solution. Everything that needs to be done must be done. Now is the moment to take bold steps. This issue must be resolved without hesitation.” His commitment to the process is both encouraging and a source of hope.

Q: Do you expect Abdullah Öcalan to be released from prison?

Abdullah Öcalan’s priority is achieving a democratic resolution to the Kurdish issue in Türkiye, a goal he has pursued for the past 50 years. Any roadmap for resolving the Kurdish question must ultimately lead to his own freedom. Should the process succeed, Öcalan’s release would be inevitable, as it is unjust for such a historic figure to remain imprisoned. Guaranteeing his freedom to live and work openly is vital to the historic relationship between the Kurdish and Turkish peoples.

Q: How do the people of Türkiye view the solution process?

There is strong backing from Turkish society for the peace process and the establishment of a democratic society. Studies conducted by various research institutions indicate that support for the process exceeds 70%, reflecting a significant and meaningful level of public endorsement.

Q: When will the Imrali delegation visit Öcalan? Is he in good health?

Relations with Öcalan are ongoing. Our delegation has visited Imrali and confirmed that he is in good health and in high spirits. He has also met with his family. However, he should not be limited to meetings with relatives, lawyers, or specific delegations — all segments of society should have the opportunity to engage with him. He wishes to meet with everyone. Contact with Öcalan should not be restricted to weekly or monthly visits; he should be able to meet freely and regularly. It is unacceptable to impose limitations on discussions with him, especially when he is working to resolve a matter of such historic and national importance.

Q: What steps should the Turkish parliament take regarding the solution process?

Türkiye must establish a system in which the state truly serves its people. A shared life should be built where no one is marginalised because of their identity or beliefs. A genuinely balanced system is needed — with an independent judiciary, a strong parliament, and a transparent executive. Issues should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation rather than violence. Social peace must be achieved, local will respected, and robust local democracy guaranteed. The state requires a democratic transformation, and if such a transition occurs, the necessary steps are clear.

Q: Are there any legal obstacles to the solution process?

Lasting peace can only be achieved through the rule of law, justice, and a shared commitment to democracy. There are no legal barriers to ending the appointment system for governors, releasing seriously ill prisoners, or enforcing the rulings of the Turkish Constitutional Court and the European Court of Human Rights. The real obstacle lies in the weakness of political will. We attach great importance to a peace process founded on equality and democratic rights for all. Moreover, the principles of democratic integration are a crucial part of the solution.

Q: How optimistic are you that peace will succeed in this process?

The success of peace depends entirely on its ability to take root within society. Peace means living together in harmony and unity — a goal for which heavy sacrifices have already been made. Today, a new language and a new political approach are needed. A wide door of opportunity has opened, and we must walk through it together.

Q: Can you talk about the role of President Mam Jalal in the peace process?

First of all, may the soul of Mam Jalal rest in peace. I pay my deepest respects to his memory once again. During his time, he played a major role in the peace process and was deeply committed to finding a solution to the Kurdish issue. Mam Jalal pursued diplomatic efforts tirelessly, and as history shows, the progress we see today is the result of the foundations he laid. His contribution to the peace process remains immensely significant.

Q: You came to Sulaymaniyah, and the weapons were burned here. How important is the role of the PUK and President Bafel?

I am deeply grateful for the support the PUK and its leadership have given to this process. Upholding democracy and peace represents the highest political responsibility. During our visit to Sulaymaniyah, I emphasised the crucial role of the PUK and President Bafel Talabani. Their trust and support give us courage and strength in this process, as well as renewed hope for the unity of the Kurdish nation. I would like to extend my greetings to Mr Bafel Talabani and Mr Qubad Talabani through Kurdistani Nwe newspaper.



PUKMEDIA / Kurdistani Nwe