ISTANBUL – Zeynel Kete, Co-Chair of the Democratic Alevi Associations (DAD), described the symbolic burning of weapons during the July 11 disarmament ceremony as an act of profound transformation. “To burn is not to destroy, but to open the way for new existences,” he said, calling on Alevis to take an active role in the ongoing peace process.

 

The ceremony, held in the Şikefta Casenê (Jasene Cave) in Sulaymaniyah in the Federated Kurdistan Region, marked the public disarmament of 30 members of the Peace and Democratic Society Group, following a call by Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan. Zeynel Kete attended the ceremony and reflected on its spiritual and political significance.

 

Calling the event “the peace ritual of the 21st century,” Kete said: “We departed from Amed on July 10. In the Alevi faith, walking the path together and opening the way are sacred acts. This was not just a journey — it was a moment in history. No one slept on the road to Habur. Everyone wanted to witness every second. They trusted those building peace. We experienced deeply meaningful emotions.”

 

‘A SPIRITUAL SUMMIT IN THE SEARCH FOR TRUTH’

 

Kete noted that representatives from a broad spectrum of communities were present. “There was a mountain and a cave, symbols in Aryan culture representing the search for truth and rebirth. The cave is perhaps humanity’s first sacred space,” he said. “When the group arrived, despite instructions to remain seated, people stood, ululated, cried, and chanted. Each of these reactions held deep symbolic meaning.”

 

‘TRANSFORMATION, NOT DESTRUCTION’

 

Commenting on the burning of weapons, Kete said: “To burn is to change form,  not to erase. A strategic decision was made for a democratic solution to the Kurdish issue. Fire became a witness to peace, as it is also sacred in the Alevi ‘Rea Heq’ belief. New existences mean living together in this land.”

 

He emphasized that the Peace and Democratic Society Process represents a new strategy for struggle. “The call made on February 27 and the decisions of the PKK congress make this clear,” he added.

 

‘ALEVIS MUST BE PART OF THIS PROCESS’

 

Kete called for the full participation of Alevis in the peace process: “The statement read by Besê Hozat should be studied closely. Democratic integration means being recognized constitutionally for one’s truths and existence. For the past century, Alevis have not been seen as equal citizens of the Republic. Their understanding of politics, rooted in individual, social, and natural harmony, aligns with democratic society.”

 

He argued that the resolution of Alevi issues depends on democratizing politics, making peace a societal value. “That’s why Alevis must actively contribute to this process,” he said.

 

‘LET’S ORGANIZE FOR PEACE’

 

Kete stressed the need for grassroots mobilization: “Historically, those who have suffered the most violence have led the greatest peace struggles. I believe peace will prevail. This country holds the potential for coexistence.”

 

MA / Yeşim Tükel