Journalist Doğan Özgüden spoke to ANF about Abdullah Öcalan’s call on 27 February and the comments it sparked.

Özgüden recalled the 1998 ceasefire declaration. He mentioned that he had listened to that decision’s announcement live in Med TV’s studios at the time. "He made this call for peace back then as well," Özgüden said, recalling that despite all efforts, the Turkish state failed to respond. Özgüden emphasized that even in prison, Mr. Öcalan has consistently initiated peace efforts, yet all of these have been obstructed by the Turkish state.

The issue is not just laying down arms

Özgüden referred to the period when Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli made his call and expressed his concerns. Despite everything, he stressed that Öcalan’s call has brought hope to progressive revolutionary forces. Özgüden also underscored Öcalan’s focus on legal and political principles. He stated that for the process to advance, Turkey must release political prisoners and put an end to the trustee system. He said that "Tthe issue is not just about laying down arms. Measures must also be taken against the attacks targeting North and East Syria."

Democratic demands must be voiced

Özgüden recalled the rally organized by the European Kurdish Democratic Societies Congress (KCDK-E) and the European Kurdish Women's Movement (TJK-E) in front of the European Parliament in Brussels to determine their stance on Mr. Öcalan’s call. He noted that Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Özgür Özel is also set to speak at the European Parliament but stressed that a merely positive stance would not be sufficient. Instead, he emphasized the need for democratic demands to be expressed more strongly. Özgüden also highlighted the responsibility of democrats, progressives, and leftists in Turkey, emphasizing that they, too, must take action. He added that, so far, the messages received in response to the call have been positive.

Europe and the US must play their role

Özgüden emphasized that attacks on Northern and Eastern Syria continue and highlighted the crucial need to recognize the Autonomous Administration as a legitimate counterpart and to end the war. Özgüden said that European states and the United States must take an active role in the pursuit of peace and democracy. He also called for support for the ongoing resistance in Rojava.

Concerned, but hopeful

Doğan Özgüden expressed his respect for the Kurdish people’s constructive approach despite the heavy price they have paid. He noted that, despite the steps taken by the Kurdish side, uncertainty persists on the government’s part. While acknowledging his concerns about this, he also stated that he remains hopeful. Özgüden highlighted the need for a broad mobilization in the peace process. He stressed that, beyond the Kurdish movement, leftist, socialist, progressive, and revolutionary forces, the opposition, particularly the CHP, has significant responsibilities in this regard.