Turkish Parliament honors late Deputy Speaker Sırrı Süreyya Önder: “He was not just a politician. He was a conscience”

ANKARA — In a rare display of unity, Turkey’s political leaders gathered this week to pay tribute to Sırrı Süreyya Önder, the former Deputy Speaker of Parliament and a pivotal figure in the country’s pursuit of peace and democratic reform. The late lawmaker was remembered as a bridge-builder, dissident, and humanist whose legacy extended far beyond the walls of the Turkish Grand National Assembly.

The ceremonial session, held in Parliament, drew senior figures from across the political spectrum — from staunch nationalists to progressive reformers — all of whom praised Önder’s contributions to Turkey’s political and cultural evolution. A framed photograph of Önder above the parliamentary podium served as a solemn reminder of his life dedicated to conviction, dialogue, and fearless expression.

Önder, who passed away last week following a brief illness, was a prominent member of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (Halkların Eşitlik ve Demokrasi Partisi, DEM Party) and a key participant in the now-defunct İmralı peace talks between the Turkish government and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). Despite considerable political risks, he championed dialogue and mutual understanding during a period often overshadowed by polarization and conflict.

“He was a free intellectual,” said a lawmaker from the Republican People’s Party (Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi, CHP) during the memorial. “His democratic principles never wavered. He faced crises with wisdom and clarity, qualities sorely needed in our politics.”

Önder’s brother, Ali Önder, and senior DEM Party members welcomed attendees at the memorial, which included political leaders, cultural figures, and representatives from across the political landscape. Among those present were Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş, Nationalist Movement Party (Milliyetçi Hareket Partisi, MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli, DEM Party co-chairs, former Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu, and members of the CHP and other opposition parties.

The diverse attendance underscored Önder’s rare ability to transcend political divides. Though he was a controversial figure for his involvement in Kurdish peace efforts, Önder was widely respected for his integrity, eloquence, and cultural sensitivity.

Beyond politics, Önder was an accomplished poet, screenwriter, and filmmaker. His works, which deftly combined humor, melancholy, and social critique, earned him a devoted following that cut across party lines. Through his creative contributions, Önder amplified the voices of marginalized communities and enriched Turkey’s discourse on identity, history, and justice.

“He was not just a politician,” remarked one attendee. “He was a conscience.”

During the ceremony, Parliament aired a poignant video montage of Önder’s speeches and public appearances, highlighting his enduring legacy in a country still grappling with profound social and political divides.

Önder once said in an interview, “We are not here just to argue — we are here to listen, to heal, and to imagine a new country together.” His words remain a powerful testament to his vision for a more inclusive and equitable Turkey.