Sema
The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has declared a ceasefire in response to a message from its imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan, while making his release a condition for holding a congress to dissolve the group.
In a statement released on Saturday, the PKK’s Executive Committee described Ocalan’s February 27 message as a “modern manifesto” outlining a path toward freedom and democracy.
“It is important that its contents be successfully implemented. Therefore, everyone must fulfill their duties and responsibilities,” the statement read.
The PKK emphasized its commitment to abiding by Ocalan’s call but insisted that democratic political conditions and a legal framework must be ensured for the process to succeed.
“From now on, we declare a ceasefire to demand peace and a democratic society. None of our forces will engage in armed activities unless we are attacked,” the statement added.
The group also expressed its willingness to hold a congress but stated that Ocalan himself must oversee the process.
On February 27, the Imrali delegation publicly read Ocalan’s message in both Kurdish and Turkish following a meeting with him in prison.
Outgoing Mardin Mayor Ahmet Türk delivered the statement, stressing that the PKK was formed when democratic avenues were blocked and that peace and democracy should now be prioritized.
Ocalan’s message called on the PKK to lay down its arms, convene a congress, and ultimately dissolve. He also stated that he would take responsibility for the decision and guarantee the peace process.