Kavala, Demirtaş, and Atalay Could Be Released if PKK Disbands
Kavala Demirtaş Atalay
In a striking report published by Nefes columnist Aytunç Erkin, political corridors in Ankara are reportedly discussing a new phase that could reshape Turkey’s domestic policy landscape. According to Erkin, the potential release of Osman Kavala, Selahattin Demirtaş, and Can Atalay is being considered in connection with legal reforms that may follow the dissolution of the PKK.
The “Turkey Without Terror” Process
This potential new era is said to have gained momentum following recent statements by MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli. As part of what the government refers to as the “Turkey Without Terror” initiative, it is claimed that PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan has called on the organization to lay down arms and dissolve itself.
Erkin reports that a new meeting was recently held with Öcalan, after which a delegation from the DEM Party met with Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç. During the meeting, key issues such as Öcalan’s status and possible amendments to the execution law were discussed.
Democratization Steps After Security Gains
Citing information from Ankara’s political lobbies, Erkin notes that if the PKK does indeed dissolve itself and the state’s initiative is deemed successful, the ruling government is expected to take significant steps toward democratization.
According to Erkin’s sources:
“Broad amendments to the execution law are being considered—potentially covering all prisoners except those convicted of crimes that cause widespread public harm or outrage. In this context, the release of Osman Kavala, Selahattin Demirtaş, and Can Atalay could become possible.”
What About Öcalan?
As for Abdullah Öcalan, Erkin emphasizes that discussions surrounding his legal status and future conditions are ongoing and deeply tied to the broader peace process. He writes:
“Once the ‘Turkey Without Terrorism’ process is finalized, the state is expected to take steps related to the right to hope, execution reform, and even a new constitution. The necessary groundwork is reportedly already underway.”
He also notes a telling development:
“Interestingly, recent media reports about a ‘3+1 room’ arrangement being prepared for Öcalan on İmralı Island have not been officially denied.”
