HDP co-chair Sezai Temelli visited the party's Amed Provincial Organization. After the meeting he held with party’s members, Temelli spoke to journalists.

Leyla Güven is fasting for 43 days

Temelli began his comments talking about HDP Hakkari deputy, Leyla Güven who has been on hunger strike for 43 days.

“This hunger strike - Temelli reminded - is against the isolation imposed in Imrali, it demands an end to the isolation imposed on Mr. Öcalan. This hunger strike is important. It is important as it shows the determination for peace and democracy in Turkey. The government is doing its best so that this hunger strike cannot be seen. We have been supporting Leyla Güven in our provinces and districts. To prevent this support the State attacked our buildings and detained many of our friends. The hunger strike is a democratic act.”

Temelli added: “Once again I want to call on all people of Turkey: Leyla Güven has reached day 43 of fast, the doctors said she has health problems, rapid weight loss, the critical process has begun. Everyone should do their part before it is too late. What should be done is to end the isolation imposed on Mr. Öcalan. This is a step to take quickly, and the other step is to allow lawyers to go to Imrali.”

Call to unions, civil society organisations

Temelli called on trade unions and civil society organisations to “act in order to end both isolation and the hunger strike carried out by Leyla Güven”.

He stressed that; “Choosing isolation is choosing war. Erdoğan and the AKP are trying to maintain their power with war. These war policies bring great destruction and irreparable damages to our country."

Temelli answered press questions

HDP co-chair Temelli, after his statement, also answered question by the press.

Asked about a comment on the US announcement to withdraw its troops from Syria, Temelli said: "The US decision to withdraw from Syria looks like a tactical move. Similar announcements have been made in the past by the US administration. Our view is very clear. All foreign forces should be withdrawn from Syria. The US is pulling out, Turkey and Russia should also pull out and let the peoples of Syria decide for their own future and destiny.”

In order to end these war games over Syria, added Temelli, “the United Nations should convene urgently. Ending the suffering in Syria is possible by taking a stand for peace.”