Masses demand freedom for Öcalan at Newroz celebration in Van

A huge Newroz celebration is taking place in Van province. Hundreds of thousands of people have come to the festival site below the old fortress despite frosty temperatures. The mood is enthusiastic, and the slogan “Bijî Serok Apo” (Long Live Leader Öcalan) can be heard again and again. When the program started with a minute of silence for the martyrs, the crowd chanted “Şehid Namirin” (Martyrs are immortal) afterwards.

A Newroz fire is burning in the square, and the musicians Ayfer Düzdaş and Koma Pel have performed so far. Xecê Akdoğan of the Peace Mothers Initiative gave a speech on stage, demanding an end to the war and the isolation of Abdullah Öcalan.

Speaking after, HDP deputy Feleknas Uca said: “Our people will not be stopped by snow or other obstacles. We are in a crucial time when we are facing a campaign of annihilation and war. Dirty attacks on prisoners are taking place. None of this can bring us to our knees. The hostile policy against Kurdish women will also collapse. It will not succeed. Our struggle is led by women and it will continue. It is time to finally release Abdullah Öcalan. Whatever happens, the Kurds will not give up this demand.”

The event continues, with HDP deputies Tayip Temel and Sezai Temelli among those announced to speak.

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