PM Masrour Barzani Mourns the Death of Prominent Turkish Politician Sırrı Süreyya Önder
In a heartfelt statement, PM Barzani described Önder as a “longstanding friend of the Kurdish people” and a respected advocate for peace.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Saturday extended his condolences following the death of renowned Turkish politician and parliamentarian Sırrı Süreyya Önder, praising his lifelong commitment to peace and Kurdish-Turkish reconciliation.
In a heartfelt statement, Barzani described Önder as a “longstanding friend of the Kurdish people” and a respected advocate for peace who played a significant role in Turkey’s peace process. “He was a dedicated figure in strengthening fraternity and mutual respect between the Kurdish and Turkish peoples,” Barzani stated, expressing sympathy to Önder’s family, friends, and colleagues.
“May God Almighty grant him eternal rest in paradise and bless all those who mourn him with peace and comfort,” Barzani added.
Sersaxiyê ji malbat û hevalên Sırrî Süreyya Önder dixwazim. Ew dostê dêrîn yê gelê Kurd û têkoşerê aştiyê bû û di xurtkirina biratî ya navbera Kurd û Tirk de roleke girîng hebu. Xwedê rihê wî bi behiştê şad bike. pic.twitter.com/SYdZpvxn0L
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) May 3, 2025
President Masoud Barzani also extended his condolences following the death of Sırrı Süreyya Önder, describing him as a respected political and cultural figure who devoted his life to advocating for peace and a just resolution to the Kurdish issue in Turkey. Barzani praised Önder’s influential role in the Imrali delegation and his long-standing commitment to dialogue, expressing sympathy to his family, friends, fellow activists, and members of the HDP. “I consider myself a partner in their grief,” Barzani said, praying for comfort to all who mourn his passing.
Born in 1962, Önder had a multifaceted career as a filmmaker, writer, and politician. Known for his intellectual sharpness and political courage, he was a prominent figure in Turkish politics, particularly among progressive and pro-Kurdish movements. As a deputy of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), he played a visible and influential role in parliamentary debates and peace negotiations aimed at resolving the long-standing Kurdish issue in Turkey. His sincere commitment to dialogue and nonviolence earned him respect across political divides.
