The Peoples' Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) Co-Chair Tuncer Bakırhan attended his party's “Peace and Democratic Society Gathering” in Muğla.
Referring to the “Peace and Democratic Society Process,” Bakırhan said, "I hope we will all seize this opportunity together. A new century is taking shape in the Middle East. For a hundred years, the people of the Middle East have not been able to breathe easily. Developments in the Middle East are also affecting this region. Turkey must find a democratic path for itself. Our goal is for Turks and Kurds to live together in brotherhood. Nation states are no longer a solution as regions like the Middle East become a battleground for imperialist states. Countries that can resolve their own problems will be closed to external intervention."
“With Mr. Öcalan's call, a new hope has emerged,” said Bakırhan, adding, “Instead of a monist mentality, an inclusive ground must be created. Mr. Öcalan has seen these developments. At this point, Mr. Öcalan has demonstrated his sincerity with his call to his organization. This country needs a new ground.”
Remarking that people are concerned about the current process due to the government's policies, Bakırhan emphasized that past mistakes must not be repeated.
Referring to the wave of arrests against CHP mayors, Bakırhan said, "A system without democracy and the rule of law has never benefited anyone. All segments of society are worried. If the authorities are searching for irregularities and corruption, they should look at the municipalities governed by trustees. I appeal to the government: do not stoop to such practices during this historic period. As a party, we stand against these injustices. The Kurdish issue cannot be resolved with security-oriented policies. Look at the 1921 constitution and let us enter the new century with more democratic practices. If we do this, no one will lose. We have just entered a period in which our country will resolve its problems. We must work together to ensure a climate of peace. We must contribute to this process without excluding anyone. At a time when the PKK is laying down its arms, the government must play its role. We are calling on the government to embrace democratic reasoning. We are speaking carefully to convince everyone."