The 2026 Newroz rally took place in Amed (tr: Diyarbakır) under the slogan “Newroz of Freedom and Democracy / Newroza Azadî û Yekîtiya Demokratîk.” From the early hours, thousands gathered in the square, and the celebration was attended by approximately one million people.
DEM Party Co-Chair, Tuncer Bakırhan addressed the rally and stated the following:
“Today, a historic opportunity lies before Ankara. A Turkey that resolves the Kurdish question will emerge as the most powerful actor in the region. By seizing this moment, Ankara can secure lasting peace at home and stability throughout the region. There is no time to lose. Let us come together to build a democratic Turkey rooted in equality and freedom for all 86 million citizens.
We can bring the unfinished story of the Republic of Turkey to a conclusion that brings happiness to everyone. What Kurds seek is not separation, but true partnership; not denial, but recognition; not charity, but equal rights. Kurds are pursuing solutions in the capitals of the countries where they live. Regional capitals, in turn, must abandon a security-centered perspective toward Kurds and instead embrace one based on coexistence.
On February 27, 2025, Mr. Öcalan issued a historic call. One year has now passed. The weapons have fallen silent, and have been laid down. The time has come for peace legislation and legal guarantees. Now it is the state’s turn to act.
Those in prison must now be set free. Figen Yüksekdağ, Selahattin Demirtaş, Leyla Güven and thousands of other prisoners must be released. Those in the mountains must be able to return and participate in democratic politics. Those in exile must be able to return home and engage in democratic political life. Government-appointed trustees who usurp the people’s will must step down. Mr. Öcalan’s legal status and working conditions must be secured through legislative guarantees. The path must now be opened for Mr. Öcalan to meet with his people in Amed, in this very square.
The Newroz fire kindled today in this square marks the end of one era and the dawn of a new one. This will shall not bend, this square shall not fall silent, and this people will surely prevail. Happy Newroz! Newroz pîroz be!”