Newsletters
The PKK terrorist group has reportedly made a formal decision to disband and lay down arms, a move seen as a critical turning point in Türkiye's fight against terrorism, according to a report published by the Türkiye daily on Friday.
Citing high-level sources within the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and security sources, the report claims the terrorist group held a congress last week to formalize its decision. The announcement, initially planned for last weekend, was postponed due to the passing of Imrali delegation member Sirri Sureyya Onder. Security officials now expect the group’s official statement to be made within a few days.
The PKK has waged a four-decade terrorism campaign against Türkiye, claiming the lives of more than 40,000 people, including women and children.
Speaking to the Türkiye daily, sources within the ruling AK Party confirmed that the government has already prepared a legal framework in anticipation of the decision. "The critical threshold was the disarmament and disbandment. With that behind us, we are ready to proceed," one senior official was quoted as saying.
The same sources indicated that security authorities have been in contact with PKK ringleader Abdullah Ocalan during this phase. However, party officials emphasized there are no current plans or discussions regarding his release from Imrali prison. Instead, administrative measures may be taken to ease his prison conditions, such as allowing more frequent family and political visits and assigning a support staff member.
"Ocalan himself has stated he does not wish to leave Imrali," officials noted, citing concerns over his personal safety due to past affiliations with various intelligence services.
According to the report, the AK Party leadership is on high alert regarding potentially misinterpreted public statements during this sensitive process. In a recent meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, senior figures discussed the importance of centralized and cautious messaging.
The party has designated specific officials—President Erdogan, Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, Deputy Chairman Efkan Ala, and Spokesperson Omer Celik—as the only figures authorized to make statements regarding the transition to a terror-free Türkiye.
"This process is extremely sensitive, and both the government and the DEM Party must show the utmost care," an AK Party official said.
With the reported decision on disbandment now made, authorities are expected to convene to finalize legal and administrative measures once the group makes its official declaration public. The report suggests that the upcoming period will involve a detailed evaluation of the PKK’s public statement and the rollout of legal steps developed in anticipation of this milestone.
2 min read
