At the Newroz festival in Van, attended by thundreds of thousands, Abdullah Öcalan’s former fellow prisoner Veysi Aktaş highlighted the role of the Kurdish leader in the current political process and called for concrete steps toward negotiations. “The process for peace and democratic society initiated on February 27, 2025, should be brought to a conclusion by Abdullah Öcalan and resolved on the basis of the fraternal freedom of peoples,” Aktaş said in a speech.
Aktaş pointed out that Öcalan aims to “democratize the existing republic and society and complete the process with a democratic constitution.” The goal, he said, is to establish a system based on law that guarantees social peace and justice. At the same time, Aktaş emphasized the fundamental importance of political organization: “Freedom arises through organization, justice through political and legal struggle.” Today, he said, it is necessary to place democratic negotiations, dialogue, and a peaceful solution at the center instead of violence and conflict.
Democratic order is not an option, but a historical necessity
Aktaş strongly criticized the state’s practice of appointing trustees to municipalities governed by the opposition, as well as repressive policies toward the Kurdish population. This policy ignores the democratic will of society and suppresses diversity and rights, he said. “It must be countered with an intensified struggle for a democratic republic. Such an order is not merely an option, but a historical necessity. The democratic republic rejects monist and denialist policies and is based on the recognition of diversity, equal participation, and the protection of social resources,” Aktaş stated.
With regard to the ongoing process, he said concrete legal steps are required. “If we speak of democratic transformation and peace, it is imperative to adapt the relevant legal regulations,” Aktaş said. “Central to this is the issue of equal conditions for negotiations. If the democratic negotiation method has been established as the basis, the parties must have equal conditions and freedoms,” he emphasized. “For this, the determination of the status of Abdullah Öcalan’s place of detention is essential. The Turkish state and government must act swiftly in light of developments in the region and adapt the conditions on the prison island of Imrali to a democratic negotiation process,” Aktaş demanded.
Peace means fighting for freedom, equality, and justice
In conclusion, Aktaş stressed that peace requires active political engagement: “Peace is not passivity or irresponsibility. Peace means actively fighting for freedom, equality, and justice. It is not merely the silence of weapons, but a fundamental principle in building a democratic and communal order.”
The ongoing process will prevail, while “those who profit from bloodshed will lose,” Aktaş underlined. Following the speech, participants at the celebration chanted slogans in support of Öcalan for several minutes. The program continues with further speeches and musical performances.