Kathmandu— The Turkish parliament has approved a new law intended to facilitate the disarmament of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and advance a fragile peace process. The “Law on Strengthening National Solidarity and Social Integration” proposes suspending sentences for individuals convicted of PKK-related offenses, contingent upon the group’s complete disbandment and surrender of weapons—a move welcomed by some as a step toward reconciliation but fiercely contested by ultranationalist factions. Passed with 467 votes in favor out of 592 MPs, the bill follows a symbolic disarmament ceremony by the PKK last year and subsequent calls for political reforms from Kurdish representatives; however, its implementation remains fraught with challenges given deep-seated societal divisions and concerns over democratic freedoms.

A Divided Parliament Reflects Societal Rifts

The passage of the law was not without significant opposition. Ayyuce Turkes, a delegate from the ultranationalist IYI party—and daughter of the founder of the Grey Wolves—accused the government of rushing the bill through parliament and taking an overly conciliatory stance toward Abdullah Ocalan, the PKK’s founder, referring to him as a “baby killer.” A physical altercation even broke out during the debate, highlighting the deep polarization within Turkish society. Interestingly, the MHP, historically opposed to peace initiatives with the PKK, now supports the bill, demonstrating a shift in political alignments.

Law’s Provisions and Potential Impact

The law applies to convictions related to PKK membership, propaganda, financing, or support, offering sentence suspensions of five to ten years depending on the length of the original sentence. Ongoing investigations will also be put on hold. Pro-government media estimate that up to 3,600 prisoners could potentially benefit from these provisions. However, the law excludes individuals convicted before June 1, 2005, as well as those found guilty of homicide, meaning Ocalan himself is ineligible for a suspended sentence. The PKK has acknowledged the bill as a first step but insists that further democratization reforms are necessary.

Concerns Over Democratization and Erdogan’s Control

Political scientist Berk Esen criticizes the law for lacking concrete democratic solutions to address the underlying Kurdish issue, noting that the government has simultaneously increased pressure on the main opposition CHP party. He argues that President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will ultimately control the implementation of the peace process through his chairmanship of the National Security Council. Reha Ruhavioglu, director of the Kurdish Studies Center, agrees, stating, “Erdogan will clearly set the pace,” due to the power imbalance between the state and the PKK. Experts believe Erdogan is also motivated by the upcoming 2028 elections and seeks to minimize political risks associated with the process.

Regional Factors Influencing Peace Efforts

Observers point to a changing security landscape in the region as contributing to this renewed push for peace. The fall of the Assad regime in Syria, the war in Gaza, and ongoing conflicts involving Israel, the United States, and Iran are all seen as factors influencing Turkey’s approach. Both Syria and Iran host significant Kurdish populations supported by various regional actors, leading Ankara to believe that a more stable relationship with Kurds within its own borders could provide greater flexibility in both domestic and foreign policy.

The law’s success hinges on the complete disarmament of the PKK, a condition subject to verification by Turkish authorities and confirmation by the National Security Council. Experts anticipate a gradual implementation, carefully calibrated to public reaction.

(With inputs from DW)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.