Breaking News: Upcoming Meeting with Öcalan Revealed by DEM Party Sources

Key Details

After three weeks since the DEM Party’s application to meet with PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan, the first statement regarding the meeting has finally emerged from DEM Party sources. The announcement revealed that the meeting is scheduled to take place next week, with the possibility of multiple meetings in the pipeline.

SÖZCÜ reporter Başak Kaya shared the details on SÖZCÜ TV, stating that the names of the individuals who will attend the meeting have been confirmed. “The call made by MHP leader Bahçeli is taking shape. DEM Party sources indicate that the initial contact with Imralı will happen next week. The designated attendees are Sırrı Süreyya Önder and Pervin Buldan. DEM sources also mentioned that subsequent meetings will occur, with the proposed solutions being crucial in this process.”

Duration of the Process

It is noted that other parties from the Parliament may also participate in the talks, including the MHP. The decision on who will be part of these discussions will be made by the party’s committees. Drawing on the past peace process, the current timeframe suggests a positive or negative conclusion within 1-2 months.

Presidential Approval and Diplomatic Efforts

When asked whether President Erdoğan had approved the meeting, it was confirmed that he had indeed given his consent, with the two designated individuals finalized. Prior to Bahçeli’s call, there were diplomatic efforts carried out between the DEM Party and the MHP. Additionally, coordinated discussions were held with the AKP to ensure the smooth progression of this process.

The success of this process and its alignment with recent developments in Syria is crucial for its effectiveness. The key factor that will shape the outcome of this entire process is Öcalan’s response. His call will determine the course of action, the stance of other parties involved, and the overall direction of this significant initiative.

Background

The journey leading up to this imminent meeting traces back to the initial handshake between MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli and DEM Party lawmakers on October 1st. This gesture was followed by Bahçeli’s call to dismantle the organization and have DEM Party members speak in the Turkish Grand National Assembly alongside a similar invitation to Öcalan.

Subsequently, on November 26th, during a group meeting, Bahçeli escalated his previous statements by urging for a face-to-face meeting between Imralı and the DEM Party without delay. Following this call, DEM Party Co-Chair Tuncer Bakırhan announced the submission of an application to the Ministry of Justice to visit Imralı.

In response, Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç expressed that a suitable time for the meeting with Öcalan would be determined in due course.

As the anticipation for this crucial meeting builds up, the political landscape is fraught with expectations, uncertainties, and the potential for groundbreaking outcomes. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story.