CHP Leader Backs Peace Talks, Sets Firm Boundaries on Ocalan’s Release and Erdogan’s Gains
"The Kurdish question exists in Turkey and must be solved through democratic mechanisms, with parliament serving as the primary forum for resolution," Ozel emphasized.

Jan. 12, 2025
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The leader of Turkey's main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), Ozgur Ozel, has expressed a nuanced stance on the evolving peace process in Turkey and Northern Kurdistan, while establishing distinct parameters concerning likely consequences involving PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan's release and President Erdogan's electoral prospects.
In a significant press briefing, Ozel confirmed his party's support for renewed peace initiatives while openly warning against connecting the process to either the release of imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan or possible electoral advantages for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
"The Kurdish question exists in Turkey and must be solved through democratic mechanisms, with parliament serving as the primary forum for resolution," Ozel emphasized.
He also outlined a vision for institutional engagement. "Solving the Kurdish issue needs a transparent and sincere process. We seek a peaceful resolution to end mothers' tears and prevent further bloodshed."
The CHP leader called for strategic resource reallocation, suggesting that "funds currently directed toward counter-terrorism operations should be redirected toward public welfare and constructive initiatives."
In a direct challenge to the latest international commentary, Ozel explicitly refuted statements made by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who had recently described Turkish-Kurdish relations as historically antagonistic.
Trump's assertion that "Kurds and Turks have been enemies for many years and harbor mutual antipathy" was rejected by Ozel as mischaracterizing the intricate historical relationship between the communities.
This development occurs against the backdrop of evolving dynamics in Turkey's approach to its Kurdish population and regional security considerations.
The CHP's stance indicates a fragile balance between supporting peace initiatives while maintaining opposition to specific concessions that could change the political landscape.