‘Terror-Free Türkiye’ initiative could see major progress in April: Ruling AK Party spox

Türkiye’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) Deputy Chairman and Spokesperson Omer Celik stated that Türkiye may witness significant developments in its Terror-Free Türkiye initiative’s goal within this month, marking a potential turning point.

Speaking after the party’s Central Decision and Executive Board meeting, chaired by President and AK Party leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Celik addressed several topics, including security, national unity, and political reforms.

“Hopefully, this month, we may see developments that indicate the process has reached a certain stage,” Celik said. “The dissolution of the terror group and its disarmament following the call from Imrali would be a turning point.”

Security and regional stability at the forefront

Celik emphasized that the disarmament of the terrorist group PKK would not only serve Türkiye’s internal stability but also benefit regional peace.

“Removing terrorist organizations from the equation would undermine the efforts of actors trying to destabilize the region,” he said. “This outcome would support those advocating for unity and solidarity among regional communities.”

He confirmed that a dedicated AK Party committee was monitoring the process closely, meeting almost every other day to evaluate developments.

It was assessed that these developments may be related to Ferhat Abdi Sahin, code-named Mazlum Kobani, also known as Mazloum Abdi, one of the ringleaders of the PYD/YPG and the so-called commander of the SDF, who announced a conference to be held in Syria on April 26.

PKK/YPG has been designated as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the U.S., and the European Union.

The PKK’s Syrian offshoot, the YPG, plays a dominant role in the SDF—a group long supported by Washington in the fight against Daesh in Syria.

The PKK has waged a four-decade terrorism campaign against Türkiye, claiming the lives of more than 40,000 people, including women and children.

Broader democratic reform and social unity

Celik reiterated that the government’s long-standing policy aims to broaden the scope of democracy to address cultural and ethnic grievances. He said the path forward lies not in identity-based politics but in raising democratic standards.

“We aim to resolve cultural issues not through identity-based approaches but through democratic reforms,” Celik stated. “Expanding democratic measures will eliminate the conditions that extremist elements exploit.”

He added that the process would proceed without compromising the nation’s foundational values or engaging in any negotiations that might undermine national unity.

International remarks, broader perspective

Celik also praised the late Pope Francis’s final message on Gaza, calling it a just and balanced statement.

“His message calling for peace and humanitarian aid in Gaza was just and appropriate,” he noted.

He concluded by reaffirming Ankara’s strategy of building unity and shared prosperity amid global instability.

“While some actors bring chaos and catastrophe to the region, Türkiye’s stance on promoting unity and cooperation stands out positively,” Celik added.