Tuncer Bakırhan, co-chair of Turkey’s pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, has expressed strong support for the recent agreement between the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Syria’s interim government. Bakırhan stated that the accord aligns with imprisoned Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan’s recent call for peace and represents a step towards a democratic and inclusive Syria that respects the rights of all ethnic and religious communities.
Speaking to journalists in Diyarbakır’s (Amed) Sur district on Tuesday, following the Newroz declaration, Bakırhan described the agreement as a major political development. “A unitary, monolithic Syrian regime is no longer viable,” he stated regarding the deal signed on March 10 by SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi and Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. “This agreement clearly envisions a democratic Syria where all communities, including Alawites, Kurds, Christians, Druze, and Armenians, are represented.”
A New Era for Syria?
The agreement marks the Syrian government’s first control over the northeast region since 2012 and includes provisions for integrating the SDF into the national army, implementing a nationwide ceasefire, and recognizing Kurdish cultural rights. It also grants citizenship to tens of thousands who were previously denied it under the Assad regime.
Bakırhan emphasized that a democratic Syria would not only benefit its own citizens but also contribute to regional stability. “A democratic Syria will benefit Turkey the most, as well as the broader region,” he said. “The agreement signed there aligns with Öcalan’s call. We hope it succeeds, becoming a model for the Middle East, replacing conflict with dialogue and coexistence.”
Connection to Öcalan’s Peace Call
Bakırhan linked the agreement to a historic February 27 statement made by Öcalan, the imprisoned founder of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), in which he called for his militant group to disarm and disband. The declaration was read aloud in Istanbul by a delegation of DEM Party lawmakers.
“Mr. Öcalan’s message was clear: a stronger, more dynamic, and more determined struggle should continue in a democratic and non-violent manner,” Bakırhan stated. “Ending the conflict and removing violence from Turkey’s political landscape would be beneficial for all 85 million citizens.”
DEM Party’s Next Steps
Bakırhan confirmed that a DEM Party delegation is considering visiting North and East Syria to engage with the signatories of the agreement and contribute constructively to the process. “The agreement has made such visits more feasible. Engaging with the signatories and understanding their perspectives is essential,” he said.
Addressing questions regarding politicians living in exile, Bakırhan expressed hope that a resolution to the Kurdish issue in Turkey would allow exiled political figures to return. “This is a long-term issue, spanning 200 years. If we solve this fundamental problem, other related issues will also be resolved,” he stated.
Newroz and the Future of Kurdish Political Engagement
The DEM Party leader also discussed preparations for the upcoming Newroz celebrations, revealing efforts to ensure participation from Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) representatives, intellectuals, artists, and writers from the Kurdish diaspora. “This will be a significant Newroz. Our delegation invited political actors in the KRG, and we expect prominent figures to join the celebrations in Amed,” he said.
Bakırhan concluded by stressing the urgency of peace efforts in Turkey. “These lands deserve peace. What the people hope for, what 85 million citizens need, is peace. We call on everyone to take responsibility and act accordingly. We will hold meetings in 101 locations across Turkey, from the Black Sea to Thrace, ensuring that our message of peace reaches all communities.”
