RIHA - Thousands of people in Wêranşar district lit the Newroz fire with the slogan "Bijî Serok Apo". 

 

Newroz celebration was held in Wêranşar (Viranşehir) district of Riha (Urfa) with the slogans "Rêbertiya Azad Civaka Demokratîk (Free Leader, Democratic Society)" and "Democratic Society Newroz for Freedom". Thousands of people participated in the celebration held at the auction site in Şırnak neighbourhood. The are where the celebration was held was decorated with red, yellow and green coloured streamers. Citizens entered the area with their traditional dressed and danced for a long time with the music played. 

 

Peace Mother Fatma Akbaş said, "We have come to these days with great costs. We are behind the decision taken by the Leader and we trust on him."

 

Democratic Regions Party (DBP) member Tarık Yazıgan said, "Mr Öcalan's call is a new milestone for the struggle. This call has increased our passion for freedom. The physical freedom of Mr Öcalan will definitely be ensured. We will increase the struggle with the call of Mr Öcalan."

 

People's Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party Riha MP Dilan Kunt Ayan said, "We are the descendants of Kawa who did not bow down to geniuses. Öcalan lit the Newroz fire in İmralı on 27 February. We will keep this fire burning."

 

After the speeches, the Newroz fire was lit with the slogans "Bijî Serok Apo (Long live Leader Apo)" led by the Peace Mothers. Young people jumped over the fire for a long time. The celebration ended with a halay accompanied by Kurdish songs performed by Kolektifa Rîtmên Azad.