ÊLIH – Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party Batman MP, Zeynep Oduncu Kutevi, stated that the Kurdish people’s single and unwavering demand is the freedom of Abdullah Öcalan, calling on everyone to join the struggle to ensure the success of the ongoing process.

 

A Democratic Society and Freedom Rally was held on October 12 in Dörtyol, Êlih (Batman), demanding the physical freedom of Kurdish People’s Leader Abdullah Öcalan. Thousands gathered, making the call for the right to hope and for the National Solidarity, Brotherhood and Democracy Commission in the Parliament to meet with Öcalan as soon as possible. 

 

Throughout the rally, participants chanted “Bijî Serok Apo (Long live Leader Apo)”, pointing to İmralı as the key to a lasting solution and peace.

 

DEM Party MP Zeynep Oduncu Kutevi said that the people’s participation reflected their clear and united demand. She said: “While organizing for the rally, we met many citizens whose primary demand was the physical freedom of Mr. Abdullah Öcalan. Thousands came together with one voice, shouting that steps must be taken to secure his freedom and to build a democratic society. The enthusiasm of the people, from the youngest to the oldest, filled the square long before the rally began. This revealed the people’s deep longing for peace.”

 

She emphasized the strong message that emerged from the rally: “The atmosphere, the banners, and the flags all made one thing clear, the state must take a concrete step on this issue. Mr. Abdullah Öcalan is the chief negotiator and the person who has demonstrated the will for peace. He has provided all the necessary conditions for peace in Turkey to be realized. Every slogan, every banner in the rally was a demand for his freedom.”

 

Stressing that achieving peace is difficult but necessary, Zeynep Oduncu Kutevi said that all peoples of Kurdistan, Turkey, and the Middle East must unite on common ground to fulfil their responsibilities. She concluded: “This process must include everyone, from the opposition to conservatives and nationalists. If peace is achieved, it will not only concern the peoples of Turkey but all of the Middle East. That’s why everyone must play their role. The sooner peace comes, the sooner we can all live in a democratic environment.”