Terrorist ringleader Ocalan to call for PKK disbandment in Imrali statement

A delegation from the Kurdish-oriented Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) traveled to Imrali Island on Thursday for a third meeting with Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed ringleader of the terrorist organization PKK, ahead of an anticipated statement regarding the future of the armed group.

Ocalan is expected to declare that the PKK’s armed struggle is no longer necessary and signal the group’s disbandment.

Seven-member DEM Party delegation meets with Ocalan

The delegation’s visit follows a series of political developments, including calls from the Turkish government for Ocalan to issue an unconditional ceasefire and dismantle the PKK.

The visit also comes in the wake of Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli’s statement urging the PKK to “cease all terrorist activities and dissolve itself.”

According to Turkish media outlet CNN Turk‘s Ankara Bureau Chief Dicle Canova, the highly anticipated statement from Ocalan has already been obtained.

The statement reportedly emphasizes that the PKK’s armed struggle has lost its purpose due to political reforms, democratic advances and geopolitical shifts.

Ocalan’s expected message: End of armed struggle

Canova reported that Ocalan’s statement, written on a single A4 page, outlines the history of the PKK and its so-called rationale for armed campaign, citing the suppression of “Kurdish identity” and political restrictions in the past.

However, it goes on to argue that recent developments have rendered continued armed conflict unnecessary.

“Ocalan is expected to stress that laying down arms is now a necessity and that democratic engagement should be prioritized,” Canova stated, adding that there is a strong expectation that Ocalan will personally announce the disbandment of the PKK.

No bargain, no amnesty

Speculation surrounding potential concessions for Ocalan has been a focal point of public debate. However, sources close to the matter have indicated that no political bargain has been struck.

The statement is reportedly directed solely at the PKK and its affiliates, without addressing the Turkish government.

“There is no discussion of a pardon,” Canova reported. “Neither amnesty nor ‘hope rights’ are on the table. Ocalan is expected to remain in Imrali.”

What happens next?

While Ocalan’s statement could mark a historic turning point, the reaction from the PKK remains uncertain.

Analysts suggest that the group’s response will determine whether the conflict, which has lasted for decades, comes to an official end.

The DEM Party delegation is expected to deliver a press statement at 5:00 p.m. local time, where they will share further details about the meeting and Ocalan’s message.