Ocalan and how to punish PKK general amnesty is impossible
Mehr News Agency, International Desk– Azar Mahdavan: The words of Gerry Adams, leader of Ireland’s Sinn Féin party—”Peace is not merely the absence of war but a transformation of relations”—offer a clearer lens through which to view Turkey’s current relationship with the PKK. This statement underscores that shifts in relations between parties, even without active conflict, can signify progress toward peace. Many experts argue that news of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) dissolving does not mark an absolute end to hostilities but rather signals an evolution in its nature and ties with Ankara—a shift that could pave the way for future developments.
The dissolution of the PKK must now be analyzed as a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern politics and security. This decision, met with widespread reactions from governments and institutions alike, raises critical questions about the group’s future trajectory and its implications for Kurdish communities. Key concerns include: What legal steps will follow this dissolution? How will it impact PKK leaders and members? Changes in political structures may trigger further social and political transformations among Kurds—challenging conventional notions of peace and security in the region.
The following is Mehr’s interview with Turkish legal expert Cüneyt Altıparmak:
The PKK announced its dissolution—does this meen an end to conflict? What legal steps follow?
“This move by the PKK holds significance not only for Turkey but also vitally for our neighboring states. Turkey has initiated its ‘Terror-Free Turkey’ campaign aimed at eradicating terrorism from its soil—and we can call it successful. To understand this outcome fully though requires examining earlier phases too; post-July 15 coup attempt especially saw intensified counterterrorism efforts beyond borders leading ultimately towards encirclement tactics against both core factions plus affiliates leaving no option except disbandment which happened accordingly while facing weakened opposition unable now either mount serious attacks or retaliate effectively hence retreat became inevitable.”
“No additional legislation is needed here since existing laws provide reasonable frameworks allowing completion naturally yet expansion within domestic politics presents opportunities drafting constitutional reforms fitting contemporary needs making these times truly transformative milestones nationally speaking.”
“Turkey desires such processes extend regionally given spiritual boundaries exceed geographical ones today clearly recognized by all involved actors.”
Post – peace talks between Ankara & ;the organization , discussions emerged regarding ‘ right hope ’for Abdullah Öcalan — what exactly does term entail ? Could he qualify ?
“‘Right hope’ primarily relates sentencing regulations particularly executions where lifelong prisoners after serving certain periods might reintegrate society reviewing behaviors under reconsideration clauses however eligibility isn’t worldwide nor automatic requiring fulfillment specific criteria first being completion prison terms per national statutes maximum incarceration durations capped at thirty years (thirty-six aggravated cases) nonetheless initial verdicts unlike UK precedent set via European Court human Rights ruling Winter case limiting life sentences twenty-five years duration.”
“Applying concept Öcalan however would be misguided since similar demands could arise broadly thus necessitating clear legislative frameworks before debate possible anyway DEM Party representatives explicitly deny campaigning his release suggesting symbolic gesture demonstrating government sincerity taking honest steps forward currently more than substantive policy shift…”
What awaits leaders/members based Qandil legally ? can they return home safely ? And weapons stockpile disposal mechanisms how handled practically moving forwards?”
Article penal code section governs terrorist offenses distinguishing perpetrators non-involved supporters armed versus unarmed participants allowing repentance provisions constitutionally though blanket amnesty remains unlikely until full disbandment verified elements addressed holistically.”
Current focus lies ensuring complete disarmament cessation anti-Turkey activities while potential sentencing adjustments exist no wholesale legal leniency granted yet particularly leadership tiers treated differently under law various formulas exist handling arms surrender whether abandoned Syria/Iraq destroyed state supervision details unfold over time…”
