ANKARA - Making his first statement after the PKK's weapons disposal ceremony, Turkish Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) Chair Devlet Bahceli said that Kurdish People's Leader Abdullah Ocalan kept his promise and stood behind his commitment.
Devlet Bahçeli made the first statement following the PKK’s disarmament ceremony. He noted that the country and surrounding regions are gradually transitioning into a new and hopeful era. Stressing that the PKK, in line with the “Call for Peace and Democratic Society” made public with the February 27 Imrali declaration, held its 12th congress on May 5–7, 2025, during which it announced its organizational dissolution and decision to lay down arms, Bahçeli said: “As was clear in his latest video message, the founding leadership of the PKK has kept his promise, honored its commitment, and foresaw global and regional threats in a timely manner.”
Bahçeli also commended the DEM Party for maintaining a prudent and responsible political stance, aligning with a balanced and accurate discourse, and taking its place alongside the centuries-old brotherhood. He stated: “Our President and the government, who have embraced the state policy of a ‘Terror-Free Turkey’ from the outset and have shown every kind of sacrifice, have fully supported this process.”
Emphasizing that, as of today, the organization has begun surrendering weapons in groups and that a dark era is coming to a historic close, Bahçeli added: “Those political and ideological circles who engage in exploitation, slander, and denial to keep a provocative atmosphere alive have been disappointed in the face of blossoming hopes and a broadening climate of peace and stability. Indeed, we are living through days of the utmost significance for both our nation and our region. These positive developments that bring relief to the heart are a milestone, and collective conscience is pleased. I extend my gratitude to everyone—especially our President—who has contributed, acted, and supported the realization of a ‘Terror-Free Turkey,’ and I pray to Almighty God for this new era to be auspicious for our beloved nation.”