Imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan to make “transformative” statement

QANDIL, Iraq — The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (Partiya Karkerên Kurdistanê, PKK) announced that its leader, Abdullah Öcalan, is set to initiate a transformative process aimed at reshaping Turkey and advancing Kurdish rights through democratic means. In a statement marking the anniversary of the 15 February “international conspiracy” that led to Öcalan’s capture, the PKK’s executive committee called on Middle Eastern societies, particularly Turkey, to embrace democratic change. The statement emphasized that the pursuit of freedom and democracy would respect the democratic interests of all communities.

Shift in Political Landscape

According to the PKK, Öcalan is anticipated to release a statement from prison on 15 February that will mark the start of a new phase, impacting not only the PKK and the Kurdish people but also Turkey and the broader Middle East. “The state should not be afraid,” the statement declared. “Neither Öcalan nor the Kurdish people aim to destroy the state; instead, they seek to rebuild it on a foundation of transparency and democracy. The Turkish people need not fear division, as Öcalan and the Kurdish movement are working toward a democratic Turkey that guarantees Kurdish freedom.”

The PKK emphasized that Öcalan’s vision is not antagonistic toward any group, either within the region or internationally. Rather, the movement’s democratic struggle aims to establish a political framework that integrates and respects the aspirations of all communities.

Collective Responsibility for Change

The statement acknowledged that the transformation envisioned by Öcalan would require collective effort. “This is not solely his struggle; it is our shared responsibility,” the PKK leadership stated. “To achieve this transformation, everyone must understand their role and take active steps. Change will not come through wishes alone but through intelligent and well-organized action.”

The PKK called upon Kurdish communities — especially women and youth — alongside democratic forces in Turkey and international allies, to engage deeply with Öcalan’s vision. The movement urged them to recognize the significance of this new phase and actively work toward its realization.

Call to Action on 15 February

Reiterating its opposition to what it described as the “February 15 conspiracy,” the PKK called for widespread protests on the 26th anniversary of Öcalan’s imprisonment. It urged supporters to transform the day from one symbolizing Kurdish persecution into a rallying point for freedom, demonstrating opposition to the forces behind Öcalan’s capture.

As Turkey and the region prepare for potential political shifts, Öcalan’s role remains a central point of debate. Whether his forthcoming declaration will lead to substantive change depends on the response from Kurdish and Turkish communities and the broader international stage.